Frank A. Horton began making reproduction hardware in the early 30's in the basement of his Connecticut home. His wife Angie was an antique dealer, and she had a need for fine hardware. Using his skills as a tool and die maker, he established his reputation by making hardware for many of the finest antique dealers in the east.
In 1946, James B. Horton joined his father. Together, they built Horton Brasses into a thriving concern. By 1964, the company needed more space. Jim decided that the former site of the J. & E. Stevens Iron Toy factory in Cromwell was best suited to the needs of the business. He bought Horton Brasses from his father soon after.
Jim and his wife, Barbara, worked as a team. Jim began to introduce new reproductions, and expanded Horton Brasses' product line considerably. Barbara managed the office, and developed new markets. In the early 70's, Jim decided the company needed its own foundry in order to ensure high quality castings. He set out to learn the foundry trade, and built a foundry from the ground up. Horton Brasses' castings are very fine, and a tribute to his efforts.
In 1992 Jim retired, and his oldest daughter, Barbara bought the business. She and her husband Toby work together, with Toby handling the company's computer and information needs. Their son Orion joined them in 2001. As of January 1, 2007 Barb retired and handed the reigns to Orion.
Proud of its heritage as a family business, Horton Brasses remains committed to producing the finest cabinet and furniture hardware, while delivering the very best level of customer service possible.
