KITTINGER FURNITURE COMPANY
The Kittinger Furniture Company, founded in 1866, has been a beacon of fine furniture craftsmanship for over 150 years. Established shortly after the American Civil War, the company was born in Buffalo, New York, at a time when America was ripe with opportunity and expansion.
Originally a paper factory started by George and Oliver Colie, the business soon expanded into upholstered furniture, capitalizing on the booming industrial market in Buffalo. By 1885, the enterprise evolved into a dedicated furniture plant specializing in handcrafted pieces that echoed the grandeur of 18th-century styles.
The transition to what would become the renowned Kittinger Furniture Company occurred under the leadership of Irvine J. Kittinger, George Colie's son-in-law. With a strong ethos that "Our business is not primarily to turn furniture into money, but to produce something really worthwhile," Irvine steered the company into a new era that emphasized unmatched quality over mass production.
The 1960s marked a significant change when the Kittinger family sold the company, leading to a series of ownership changes over the following decades. Despite these transitions, the quality and craftsmanship of Kittinger furniture remained a source of pride for its artisans.
The company faced its most significant challenge in 1990, culminating in the closure of its iconic Elmwood Avenue factory. However, this was not the end for Kittinger. In 1996, Ray and Karen Bialkowski, with deep ties to the company, purchased Kittinger and revitalized it, moving operations to a new factory in North Buffalo. The dedication of returning craftsmen helped reestablish the brand's legacy.
Today, under the Bialkowskis' stewardship, Kittinger Furniture continues to thrive, producing meticulously handcrafted furniture that resonates with both history and modernity. The company's resilience and enduring commitment to quality serve as a testament to its founders' vision, continuing to attract patrons who value the blend of traditional craftsmanship and elegant design.
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