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441 Chandler Street, Jamestown, NY 14701
Weber Knapp

History of Weber Knapp

For our full history, check out Our Story.

 
1909

Weber Knapp Is Born

1909
Weber Knapp Is Born

Ed Knapp, a former trim designer, joined Adam Weber, a local mechanic in 1909. Their firm is incorporated as Weber-Knapp Co. in Jamestown, NY.

1915

First woman foreman

1915
First woman foreman

The first woman foreman is appointed at Weber Knapp.  One of her employees is Desiree Ball, mother of the famous Lucille Ball.

1917

Keeler Brass Acquisition

1917
Keeler Brass Acquisition

Weber Knapp is sold to Keeler Brass Co. based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

1918

First Patent

1918
First Patent

First Weber Knapp patent (#1,259,075) issued for a lid support.

1920

Hello, Furniture Industry

1920
Hello, Furniture Industry

Office furniture label holders and drawer pulls, phonograph and other cabinet hardware are being developed as new product lines.

1930

Casket Hardware

1930
Casket Hardware

Weber Knapp began tooling up the hardware pieces such as latches, pivot arms and adjustment plates for clients such as Batesville Casket, Clarksburg Casket, Schuylkill Haven and high-end Marsellus Casket.

1940

Castings for Military

1940
Castings for Military

Foundry produced aluminum, brass and bronze sand castings for the US military.

1950

Time for diversity and physical growth

1950
Time for diversity and physical growth

67,000 sq. ft. addition to original building to support products such as, coat hooks, house numbers, drain protectors, sash locks, door stops, mending plates, tools, kitchen cabinet hardware, spring latches, friction slide supports and hinges. 

1960

First Counterbalance Mechanism Patent

1960
First Counterbalance Mechanism Patent

The first counterbalance mechanism patent (#3,187,374) is issued for Magnavox TV and record player cabinets.   Weber Knapp developed complete line of hardware for Singer sewing machine cabinets.

1970

Partnership with Xerox

1970
Partnership with Xerox

Another time for significant growth and physical expansion.  A partnership with Xerox vastly expanded our counterbalance opportunities and expertise.  The development of a hood latch mechanism for Ford Motor Company,  and the fabrication of aluminum extruded couplers for high end glass furniture all required electroplating and anodizing.  As a result a 45,000 sq. ft. plating and waste treatment plant was constructed on property across the river from the original plant AND a 67,000 sq. ft. assembly and shipping facility was constructed on a 60 acre site on Allen Street in Falconer, NY. 

1980

Office Ergonomics

1980
Office Ergonomics

In the decade that brought us the personal computer (PC),  Weber Knapp introduces the concept of height adjustable keyboard mechanisms, tables, and monitor positioning devices, pioneering and revolutionizing ergonomic office products throughout the decade.  1986 saw the first of several ergonomic related patents issued.

1990

Most dynamic growth decade

1990
Most dynamic growth decade

Doubled the size of the Allen Street plant to 135K sq. ft.  Installed automated powder coat line, began production of  patented Sub Zero Integrated hinges and created wholly owned subsidiary EZ Office in Taiwan.   Our ergonomic product line grows exponentially.

2000

Growth in Medical & Luxury Appliances

2000
Growth in Medical & Luxury Appliances

Growth in the luxury appliance and medical equipment markets. Designing and manufacturing built-in refrigerator and oven door mechanisms for the high end residential appliances, centrifuges, and blood analysis equipment.

2010

Introduction of Vectis Brand

2010
Introduction of Vectis Brand

Introduction of Vectis™ Brand of advanced counterbalance hinges.  Successful entry into outdoor cooking market with high-end grill manufacturers.  Production of “Next Generation” Integrated Hinges for Sub Zero. Ergonomic keyboard mechanisms accepted for use by medical cart and healthcare furniture manufacturers.  Increased manufacturing capabilities with addition of Swiss style turning centers, robotic welders, and most recently a true state of the art fiber optic laser.

2021

Introducing Smokin’ Ugly

2021
Introducing Smokin’ Ugly

Fueled by Vectis®, Weber Knapp’s custom counterbalance technology, the Smokin’ Ugly outdoor cooking accessories lineup starts with the drum smoker lid hinge. This innovative spring assisted hinge allows users to keep their hands free when checking on their slow smoking masterpiece. More offerings follow, including: latch handle kit, charcoal basket kit, charcoal chute kit, inlet vent and exhaust vent kit, grill grate and utensil hook kit, water pan holder kit, pizza oven kit, pizza peel, shelf kit, and wheel kit.

2022

Smokin’ Ugly Ecommerce Launch

2022
Smokin’ Ugly Ecommerce Launch

Smokin’ Ugly products are available online for purchase including: drum smoker kits and accessories, apparel, the TG Series grill, and the Outdoor Cookin’ Chiminea.