Inside the Umbrella Factory A Tour of Lancaster, PA’s Hidden Gem

Inside the Umbrella Factory: A Tour of Lancaster, PA’s Hidden Gem

Summary:

Lancaster, Pennsylvania is known for its picturesque countryside and Amish culture, but there is one hidden gem that many visitors overlook: the Lancaster County Umbrella Company. This factory tour offers a unique look at the art of umbrella-making and the history of this iconic accessory.

1. History of the Umbrella:

Umbrellas have been around for centuries, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations in China, Egypt, and Greece. In the 18th century, umbrellas became a popular accessory in Europe, with the first umbrella shop opening in London in 1830. The Lancaster County Umbrella Company has been producing high-quality umbrellas since 1899 and continues to use traditional techniques to this day.

2. The Umbrella-Making Process:

During the tour, visitors get to see the entire process of making an umbrella, from cutting the fabric to assembling the frame. Each umbrella is made by hand, with skilled workers carefully crafting each component. The factory also produces custom umbrellas, allowing customers to choose the fabric, handle, and other details to create a truly unique accessory.

3. Unique Umbrella Designs:

While the Lancaster County Umbrella Company produces classic, timeless designs, they also offer some unique and quirky options. Visitors can see umbrellas with animal-shaped handles, bright colors and patterns, and even umbrellas with built-in lights for nighttime use.

4. Umbrella Repair Services:

In addition to producing new umbrellas, the factory also offers repair services for damaged umbrellas. Skilled craftsmen can fix broken frames, replace fabric, and even restore vintage umbrellas to their former glory.

5. Gift Shop:

No factory tour is complete without a visit to the gift shop. Visitors can purchase umbrellas of all shapes and sizes, as well as other rain accessories like raincoats and boots. The shop also sells unique souvenirs, like umbrella-shaped keychains and magnets.

The Lancaster County Umbrella Company may not be the most well-known attraction in Lancaster, but it is certainly worth a visit. With its rich history, skilled craftsmen, and unique designs, this hidden gem is a must-see for anyone interested in the art of umbrella-making.

Inside the Umbrella Factory: A Tour of Lancaster, PA’s Hidden Gem

Lancaster, Pennsylvania is known for its picturesque countryside, Amish community, and historic landmarks. However, tucked away in the heart of Lancaster is a hidden gem that many visitors overlook – the Umbrella Factory.

The Umbrella Factory is a family-owned and operated business that has been producing high-quality umbrellas since 1935. The factory is located on a quiet street in Lancaster, and visitors can take a tour to see how the umbrellas are made.

The tour begins with a brief history of the factory and its founders. Visitors can see vintage umbrellas and photographs of the factory from decades past. The tour then moves to the production floor, where visitors can see the various stages of umbrella production.

First, the frames are made from materials such as steel or fiberglass. The frames are then shaped into the desired shape and size for the umbrella. Next, the fabric is cut and sewn to fit the frame. Visitors can see the skilled workers carefully stitching the fabric to ensure a perfect fit.

After the fabric is attached to the frame, the umbrella is tested for quality and durability. The factory uses a rain simulator to test the umbrellas and ensure they can withstand heavy rain and wind. Visitors can see the rain simulator in action and watch as the umbrellas are put to the test.

The tour concludes with a visit to the factory store, where visitors can purchase umbrellas of various sizes, colors, and designs. The store also sells other rain-related accessories, such as raincoats and boots.

Overall, the Umbrella Factory is a unique and fascinating destination in Lancaster. Visitors can learn about the history of umbrella production and see firsthand how high-quality umbrellas are made. So, the next time you visit Lancaster, be sure to add the Umbrella Factory to your itinerary.