Baltimore: The Historic Capital of Umbrella Manufacturing

News Summary

Baltimore’s rich legacy as the umbrella manufacturing capital of the U.S. is explored, detailing its peak production, iconic manufacturers, and cultural significance. The story traces the city’s origins in umbrella making back to the late 1700s and highlights key players in the industry, including the Beehler Umbrella Company. Despite a decline in local production due to globalization, Baltimore’s influence on umbrella design and manufacturing continues to be showcased at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.

Baltimore has a rich historical legacy as the umbrella manufacturing capital of the United States. During its peak in the early 20th century, the city produced approximately 2 million umbrellas annually, with a total market value of $5 million. This cultural and economic significance is a reflection of the city’s unique climate and its prominence in the garment industry.

The booming umbrella industry was particularly notable in the 1920s and 1930s, when glamorous Hollywood films frequently showcased characters clad in fashionable hats and brandishing umbrellas, many of which were crafted in Baltimore’s vibrant Garment District. Locally manufactured products helped solidify Baltimore’s reputation, as a 1922 headline in the Sun newspaper underscored the city’s standing by declaring it the “CENTER OF UMBRELLA TRADE.” This title emerged during a time when Maryland’s summer rainfall averaged between 3.5 to 4.7 inches monthly, underscoring the practicality and necessity of the umbrella in daily life.

The story of the umbrella in Baltimore started as early as 1772, when a shopkeeper feebly attempted to adopt the gadget, surprising passersby and causing a stir. Initially met with skepticism and ridicule, labeled as a symbol of “ridiculous effeminacy,” umbrellas soon garnered recognition for their health benefits, prompting physicians to recommend their use. The first substantial production step occurred in 1828 when Francis Beehler, a German immigrant, established the first umbrella factory in the city, which eventually became known as the Beehler Umbrella Company. This factory, often referred to as “The Oldest Umbrella House in America,” endured several relocations over time due to fire damage.

Throughout its operation, the Beehler factory produced a variety of umbrellas, maintaining an extensive price range: from children’s versions at $1 to luxury models with sterling silver handles priced at $25. Other notable manufacturers included Gans Brothers, Polan Katz, and Brunswick Umbrella. Gans Brothers gained a reputation with their slogan, “Born in Baltimore, Raised Everywhere.” Meanwhile, Polan Katz emerged as the city’s largest umbrella producer until it shuttered operations in 1981.

As the latter part of the 20th century unfolded, Baltimore’s dominance in the umbrella manufacturing sector began to wane. The shift in production practices led to a significant decline, with the majority of umbrella manufacturing moving overseas to locations such as Songxia, China. This transformation marked a necessary adaptation to globalization and changing economic landscapes, diminishing the local prominence of the industry.

This fascinating history of Baltimore’s umbrella manufacturing is preserved and highlighted at the Baltimore Museum of Industry, which showcases artifacts and background information that narrate the city’s influential role in this unique industry. As umbrellas continue to be a staple in modern fashion, Baltimore’s significant contributions to umbrella design and manufacturing remain a vital part of its cultural heritage.

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Additional Resources

• Baltimore Fishbowl: Charm City Once Reigned Supreme for Umbrella Manufacturing
• CBS News: History of Beehler Umbrella Factory
• Baltimore Sun: Retro Baltimore – Umbrella Capital of the World
• Washingtonian: Things to Do in the DC Area
• The Baltimore Banner: Guinness Baltimore Blonde