Community Corner

Bevin Brothers Gets Big Boost in Bell Making

The East Hampton historic company nearly destroyed by a devastating fire last May is now making bells for the Salvation Army, officials announced Wednesday.

 

Bevin Bros. Manufacturing officials gathered today in East Hampton with state, local and federal dignitaries, to herald the company’s resurrection after a devastating fire last spring nearly drove the 180-year-old company out of business.

In a news conference with and , company president Matt Bevin announced that the company has contracted with the Salvation Army to produce the nonprofit's bells for the holiday season.

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"We are so grateful to all of you who have been a part of rebuilding this," Bevin said during the conference.

The Bevin Bros. factory building, which had been in East Hampton for nearly two centuries, was destroyed in a massive fire in May. The community and area public officials have rallied around Bevin to support its return to production this past summer.

Find out what's happening in East Hampton-Portlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Blumenthal went on to say that the Salvation Army agreement with Bevin is an "American success story" of how manufacturing can succeed in the U.S.

"Bevin Brothers is back and better than ever," Blumenthal said. "Salvation Army bells will be made in America, not in China. Today is a great American story. Matt's story has really resonated across the country."

Bevin, in an emotional and humble address to the media, officials and co-workers who attended the press conference, said the company's story of rebirth and renewed success was as much a credit to the community as to the company.

He also that his company is indicative of the power of small businesses in a community and he urged those in attendance to be mindful of the businesses in their communities.

"Find them, purchase from them, support them," he said.

Check back with East Hampton-Portland Patch for a full update on this story.


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