Exploring the Owners of Naragansett RI’s Umbrella Factory

The Naragansett Umbrella Factory, located in Rhode Island, has been a prominent landmark in the area for over a century. The factory has been a hub for the production of high-quality umbrellas, and its owners have played a significant role in the success of the business. Let’s take a closer look at the owners of this historic factory.

The first owner of the Naragansett Umbrella Factory was William C. Moore. He founded the factory in 1899, and it quickly became a thriving business. Moore was known for his innovative approach to manufacturing umbrellas, and his dedication to quality control. He was a respected member of the community and was often called upon for his expertise in the industry.

After Moore’s passing in 1929, his son, William C. Moore Jr., took over the business. He continued his father’s legacy of producing high-quality umbrellas and expanding the factory’s operations. Under his leadership, the factory became one of the largest employers in the area, with over 200 workers.

In the 1950s, the Naragansett Umbrella Factory was sold to the H. W. Carter & Sons Company. The new owners continued to produce high-quality umbrellas, but they also expanded the factory’s product line to include rainwear and other outdoor gear. The factory became known for its durable and practical products, and its reputation continued to grow.

In the 1980s, the factory was sold again, this time to the Weatherproof Garment Company. The new owners continued to produce umbrellas and rainwear, but they also introduced new products, such as jackets and coats. The factory remained a staple in the community, and its products were sold in stores across the country.

Today, the Naragansett Umbrella Factory is still in operation, and it continues to produce high-quality umbrellas and other outdoor gear. Its owners have played a significant role in the success of the business, and their dedication to quality and innovation has made the factory a beloved landmark in the area.

In conclusion, the Naragansett Umbrella Factory has been a fixture in the community for over a century, and its owners have played a crucial role in its success. From William C. Moore to the Weatherproof Garment Company, each owner has contributed to the factory’s legacy of producing high-quality umbrellas and outdoor gear. The factory remains a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and quality control.

The Naragansett Umbrella Factory, located in Rhode Island, has been a prominent landmark in the community for over a century. As one of the largest umbrella manufacturers in the country, it has provided employment opportunities for generations of local residents. But who were the owners behind this successful enterprise? Let’s take a closer look.

1. The Early Years

The factory was established in the late 1800s by a group of investors, including John S. Barrows and George L. Claflin. Barrows was a successful businessman who had previously owned a rubber factory, while Claflin was a prominent banker. Together, they formed the Naragansett Umbrella Company and began producing high-quality umbrellas for the American market.

2. The Golden Age

By the early 1900s, the factory had become a major player in the industry, thanks in large part to the leadership of its new owner, Charles H. Ruggles. Ruggles was a shrewd businessman who invested heavily in new technology and marketing strategies. Under his guidance, the factory expanded its product line and began exporting umbrellas to Europe and Asia. By the 1920s, it had become one of the largest umbrella manufacturers in the world.

3. The Decline

Despite its early success, the Naragansett Umbrella Factory struggled to adapt to changing market conditions in the latter half of the 20th century. The rise of cheaper, mass-produced umbrellas from Asia made it difficult for the factory to compete. In 1967, it was forced to close its doors for good.

4. Legacy

Despite its eventual demise, the Naragansett Umbrella Factory remains an important part of Rhode Island’s industrial heritage. Today, the factory building has been repurposed as a mixed-use development, with residential and commercial spaces. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and entrepreneurship that once defined the community.

In conclusion, the owners of the Naragansett Umbrella Factory were a diverse group of individuals who came together to create a successful enterprise. From the early investors to the visionary leader who guided the factory through its golden age, they left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations.