The Pro Brush Corporation has long been a staple of the Northampton and Florence communities, from its founding by abolitionists in 1843, to its recent closing in 2008. Operating under a variety of names (including the Florence Manufacturing Company), daguerreotype cases, hair brushes, bayonets and the first toothbrush were manufactured here.
But not enough attention has been paid to the workers' experiences. Historic Northampton recently acquired the final carloads of documents relating to the long-lasting company (adding to a previous collection from 1866-1974), and now we're attempting to establish a more comprehensive understanding of the life behind the brick walls. Please share your memories either on this blog or stop by to talk to our Curators.And make sure to check out the Virtual Exhibit on Pro Brush's Advertising Strategies!
