Discovering the Umbrella Factory in Laurel Hill, NC A Hidden Gem

Located in the small town of Laurel Hill, North Carolina, is a hidden gem that not many people know about – the umbrella factory. The factory has been in operation since 1935 and is still going strong today.

Visitors can take a tour of the factory and witness the process of making umbrellas from start to finish. The factory uses traditional methods and machinery, which adds to the charm of the experience. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, and they are happy to answer any questions visitors may have.

The factory produces a wide variety of umbrellas, from classic black umbrellas to trendy patterned ones. Visitors can even customize their own umbrella by choosing the fabric, handle, and other details. The factory also offers repairs for damaged umbrellas, so visitors can bring in their old umbrellas to be fixed up.

Aside from the tour, the factory also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase umbrellas and other souvenirs. The prices are reasonable, and the quality of the products is excellent. The factory also sells to wholesale customers, so visitors may see their umbrellas in stores across the country.

Overall, the umbrella factory in Laurel Hill is a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. It’s a great way to learn about the history and craftsmanship of umbrella-making while supporting a local business. So, if you’re ever in the area, be sure to stop by and discover this hidden gem for yourself.

The Umbrella Factory in Laurel Hill, North Carolina is a hidden gem that is waiting to be discovered by tourists and locals alike. This factory has been producing high-quality umbrellas for over 70 years and continues to do so to this day.

History

The Umbrella Factory was established in 1948 by a man named Joseph J. O’Neill. O’Neill had previously worked for a company that produced umbrellas in New York City, but he wanted to start his own business. He chose Laurel Hill as the location for his factory because of the abundance of pine trees in the area, which provided a good source of wood for the umbrella handles.

Over the years, the factory has changed hands several times, but it has always remained in Laurel Hill. Today, the factory is owned by a local family who is committed to keeping the tradition of umbrella-making alive.

Production

The Umbrella Factory produces a wide variety of umbrellas, from classic styles to modern designs. All of the umbrellas are made by hand, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of umbrella-makers.

The production process starts with the frame of the umbrella, which is made from a combination of metal and wood. The metal parts are cut, shaped, and soldered together to form the ribs and stretchers of the umbrella. The wooden handle is then attached to the metal frame.

Next, the fabric is cut and sewn together to form the canopy of the umbrella. The canopy is then attached to the frame, and the finishing touches, such as the tip and ferrule, are added.

Visiting the Factory

The Umbrella Factory is open to visitors, and tours are available by appointment. During the tour, visitors can see the entire production process, from the cutting and shaping of the metal to the final assembly of the umbrella.

In addition to the factory tour, visitors can also browse the factory store, which sells a variety of umbrellas, as well as other items such as walking sticks and canes.

Conclusion

The Umbrella Factory in Laurel Hill, NC is a hidden gem that is worth discovering. With its rich history and commitment to traditional methods, this factory is a testament to the art of umbrella-making. Whether you are a tourist or a local, a visit to the Umbrella Factory is sure to be a memorable experience.