H.D. Smith & Company, manufacturer of drop forged tools in Southington, began in the 1850’s as a supplier to New Haven area carriage makers. Originally based in Meriden, H.D. Smith soon constructed a factory on West Street in the Southington village of Plantsville. It was one of several factories there that were powered by the Eight Mile River. The company was famous for its “Perfect Handle” tools. Production later shifted to bicycle parts and then to tool kits for automobiles. The original wooden factory buildings were destroyed by fire in 1910 and replaced in 1911 with a new structure of steel and brick, designed by Charles H. Palmer of Meriden. Adjacent to the factory, at 24 West Street, is the company’s former office building, constructed in 1882.
I grew up in Plantsville and have always been very fond of this lovely building. The cupula, arched window shutters, well proportioned mass, standing seam copper porch roof and graceful front porch, square columns and victorian brackets inscribed with the letter “S” for Smith make it an inspirational gem. The subtle inset panels and piers on the main brick building with linear brick dental detail over the windows offer a gentle textured relief and afford shade/shadows as the hours of the day unfold. The small tower towards the rear also adds a little quirky personality to the place making it one that will reside in one’s memory. It is reminicent of a more gracious era of the horse and cairrage. I do hope that this building is restored as it is one of the most special pieces of Architecture in our Village!