Hubbardton Forge Celebrates 40th Anniversary, Introduces Maker’s Mark
Castleton, Vt.-based Hubbardton Forge is celebrating 40 years of designing and handcrafting lighting in 2014. In commemoration of this landmark occasion, the company will introduce a Maker’s Mark at the Dallas International Lighting Market. The company will unveil the Maker’s Mark on a special gift at its 40th anniversary party on Friday, January 17, from 6 to 8 p.m., Showroom #4921 TM. All are welcome to the anniversary event; a champagne toast will be offered at 7 p.m.
The Hubbardton Forge Maker’s Mark will be found on select pieces beginning in 2014. For centuries, craftsmen have affirmed their creative reputations by striking their mark on their work. That maker’s mark is a guarantee of authenticity and is the signature of the craftsmen’s work.
Hubbardton Forge was founded back in 1974 by George Chandler and Reed Hampton, two University of Vermont students who met in their senior year in a sculpting class. They located Hubbardton Forge & Woodworking in a 19th century barn belonging to George’s great-great uncle in Hubbardton, Vermont.
The two craftsmen introduced their first product line of forged steel candlesticks, fireplace screens, and accessories in 1976. Their big break came when Country Loft catalog asked them to make a lamp and then ordered 1,000 more pieces. In 1985, the founders hired their first employee, and by 1990 moved to a larger facility at its current location in Castleton, Vermont.
The first full color catalog was introduced in 1992, and by 1994, the company began exhibiting at the Dallas Market Center. They also began selling to Canadian customers through AFJ Distribution. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the company introduced many iconic products, some of which remain in the product line today.
In 2010, the company’s founders transitioned out of the business and Hubbardton Forge had continued success under the guidance of Lineage Capital. By 2012, the company had hired sales representatives to cover the continental United States. In 2013, Hubbardton Forge officially introduced its Lifetime Limited Warranty on all products.
Today, in its 40th year, Hubbardton Forge continues its commitment to leading design, quality, and customer service under the new ownership of Bunker Hill Capital, which acquired the company in late 2013.
Hubbardton Forge employs 200+ employees under one roof in Castleton, Vt., and has been honored with numerous environmental and design awards throughout the years.
