Bevin Bros. Continues Bell-Making Legacy After Almost 200 Years

Bevin Bros., a bell manufacturer based in East Hampton, Connecticut, continues to thrive nearly two centuries after its founding. The company, which produces a variety of bells including sleigh bells and cowbells, has become synonymous with holiday cheer and iconic cultural references, such as the bell from the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. Founded in 1832 by the Bevin brothers, the company now stands as the last dedicated bell factory in the United States.

According to Cici Bevin, the company’s president and a descendant of one of its founders, Bevin Bros. is experiencing a resurgence in demand. The factory produces approximately 600,000 sleigh bells, 30,000 to 40,000 cowbells, 100,000 Christmas ornament bells, and 300 yacht bells annually. She attributes this growth to a renewed interest in traditional products in a market that many consider mature and stagnant.

Challenges and Resilience in Manufacturing

The company has faced significant hurdles over the years, including the rise of electric bells that transformed the industry. Cici Bevin recalls how the introduction of electric alternatives drastically changed production methods, causing many competitors to collapse. “Before the electric bell, our raw materials would come in on 18-wheelers full of raw materials for a single bell order,” she explained. “The electric bell really changed all of that. We did withstand it, but there were certainly times when financial analysts would have advised shutting down.”

Foreign competition in the 1970s and 1980s posed another challenge, as cheaper imports threatened the viability of Bevin Bros. Cici Bevin noted that the company struggled to match pricing with foreign manufacturers, which led to difficult financial times. Despite these setbacks, Bevin Bros. adapted and survived.

In 2012, a devastating fire destroyed the original factory located on Bevin Road. Fortunately, a neighboring manufacturing facility allowed the company to relocate and resume operations within three weeks. While the new site is smaller at 23,000 square feet compared to the original 100,000 square feet, it has enabled the company to modernize and continue its production.

A Commitment to Modernization and Community

Connecticut’s supportive business environment has played a crucial role in Bevin Bros.’ success. Cici Bevin praised state officials, including Governor Ned Lamont, for fostering a culture that encourages small and mid-sized manufacturers. The state is currently funding 30% of the company’s modernization efforts, which include major digitalization initiatives aimed at improving production efficiency and tracking.

This month marks the launch of a significant software development project that Cici Bevin believes will transform operations. “This program has been custom-built for us and will help us make informed decisions regarding production planning, output, and profitability,” she stated, expressing her excitement about the future.

Bevin Bros. serves a diverse clientele, producing bells for various applications, including safety equipment for mines and seasonal products for the Salvation Army. Each holiday season, the organization relies on Bevin Bros. for its iconic red kettle bells, which are a staple of its fundraising efforts.

As the company looks ahead, Cici Bevin emphasizes the importance of maintaining the rich history of Bevin Bros. while striving for modernization. “We love our history, but we’re not just sitting back enjoying our reputation,” she said. “We are committed to growing and keeping the company relevant so we can continue to provide jobs and contribute to our community.” With a focus on future growth and employee satisfaction, Bevin Bros. remains a testament to resilience and innovation in American manufacturing.