History of Weber Knapp
For our full history, check out Our Story.
Weber Knapp Is Born
1909
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.
First woman foreman
1915
The first woman foreman is appointed at Weber Knapp. One of her employees is Desiree Ball, mother of the famous Lucille Ball.
Keeler Brass Acquisition
1917
Weber Knapp is sold to Keeler Brass Co. based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
First Patent
1918
First Weber Knapp patent (#1,259,075) issued for a lid support.
Hello, Furniture Industry
1920
Office furniture label holders and drawer pulls, phonograph and other cabinet hardware are being developed as new product lines.
Casket Hardware
1930
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.
Castings for Military
1940
Foundry produced aluminum, brass and bronze sand castings for the US military.
Time for diversity and physical growth
1950
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.
First Counterbalance Mechanism Patent
1960
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.
Partnership with Xerox
1970
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.
Office Ergonomics
1980
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.
Most dynamic growth decade
1990
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.
Growth in Medical & Luxury Appliances
2000
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.
Introduction of Vectis Brand
2010
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.
Introducing Smokin’ Ugly
2021
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.
Smokin’ Ugly Ecommerce Launch
2022
Smokin’ Ugly products are available online for purchase including: drum smoker kits and accessories, apparel, the TG Series grill, and the Outdoor Cookin’ Chiminea.
