The Litchfield Manufacturing Company

The Litchfield Manufacturing Company was founded in 1850 by Dr. Josiah G. Beckwith. He was a local physician and druggist who operated a medical practice and pharmacy on South Street in the building currently occupied by the Post Office. After founding the Litchfield Manufacturing Company, Dr. Beckwith acquired the property on South Street along the Bantam River. A decade earlier, this property had been used by Wadsworth, Lounsbury, and Turner and later by Julius Peck & Co. to manufacture shelf clocks. When Dr. Beckwith acquired the building, it measured 80 feet by 50 feet and was three stories high. In 1851, the Litchfield Manufacturing Company was incorporated, and several investors, including circus owner P.T. Barnum, joined the Board of Directors. The Company manufactured papier-mache goods such as small tables, card cases, fire screens, portfolios, small boxes, vases, and clock cases. Papier mache products were popular in Europe. To ensure the highest quality, Dr. Beckwith brought in skilled papier-mache workers from England and Germany. These artisans not only brought their unique techniques but also trained local men and women, leaving a lasting international influence on our town's industrial history. At its peak, the factory employed over 50 people. However, the success of the Company was short-lived. In 1854, P.T. Barnum persuaded the board to move the factory to East Bridgeport. A year later, due to financial difficulties, the factory closed.