Connecticut’s Bevin Bros. Bells Celebrate 200 Years of Craftsmanship

This holiday season, when sleigh bells jingle, many of those iconic sounds may trace back to Bevin Bros., a bell manufacturer based in East Hampton, Connecticut. Established in 1832, Bevin Bros. is recognized as the last dedicated bell factory in the United States and has been producing a variety of bells for nearly two centuries. Among its notable creations are the bell featured in the classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life” and the cowbell that gained fame from a popular “Saturday Night Live” sketch.

The company is currently led by Cici Bevin, a descendant of the original founders, who emphasizes the enduring legacy and adaptability of the business. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in the bell business,” Bevin stated. The factory produces approximately 600,000 sleigh bells, 30,000 to 40,000 cowbells, and 100,000 Christmas bell ornaments each year.

Resilience Through Challenges

Bevin Bros. has faced significant challenges over the decades, including the introduction of electric bells and competition from foreign imports in the 1970s and 1980s. These shifts led to tough times for the company, where meeting payroll became a struggle. “There were certainly times when a financial analyst might have suggested shutting down,” Bevin reflected. Yet, the company’s commitment to its craft and innovation has allowed it to persevere.

In 2012, a devastating fire destroyed the original factory location on Bevin Road, but the company quickly relocated to a smaller facility nearby. This new site, measuring 23,000 square feet, allowed Bevin Bros. to continue production with modern equipment just three weeks after the fire.

Bevin credits the support from state officials, including Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, for helping the company navigate its challenges. The state has provided funding for modernization efforts, which includes a new digitalization initiative aimed at improving production planning and tracking.

Innovation and Community Impact

The bells produced by Bevin Bros. serve a wide array of purposes, from safety equipment in mines to holiday decorations. The company notably provides bells for all Salvation Army bell ringers across the United States each holiday season. According to Michael Baldelli, a spokesperson for the Salvation Army, “The red kettle and the bell ringing is iconic this time of year.” Each year, Bevin Bros. supplies these bells, which have been integral to the organization’s fundraising efforts.

Bevin emphasizes the importance of modernizing the company while honoring its rich history. “We love our history, but we’re not just sitting back enjoying our reputation,” she stated. “We’re driving for modernization and transformation to keep it relevant.” This commitment will not only ensure the longevity of Bevin Bros. but also support its workforce and the community in Connecticut.

As the holiday season approaches, the sounds of Bevin Bros. bells will undoubtedly continue to resonate, symbolizing both a cherished tradition and a company dedicated to craftsmanship and innovation.