Hitchcock Historic Treasures to Find New Homes

New Hartford, CT (September 30, 2003) - The Hitchcock Chair Co., Ltd. regrettably announces the dissolution of the Hitchcock Museum housed in the Old Union Church in Riverton, Connecticut. Although the museum showcased historic treasures offering a rare insight into Connecticut life in the 1800s, public attendance waned over the years forcing the doors to close in 1997. In recent years visitors were welcome by appointment only.

According to Hitchcock President Ron Coleman, “We firmly believe in the preservation of the legacy of Lambert Hitchcock as well as the historic pieces we’ve accumulated, and are disheartened at having to dissolve the museum. Unfortunately, diminishing public interest and lack of support by the historical and antiquarian communities leaves us no other choice.” Coleman adds, “ We are pleased to be donating a number of key items to the Wadsworth Atheneum, the Connecticut Historical Society, and the Connecticut Antiquarian & Landmarks Society.” Select chairs will also be on permanent display at Hitchcock’s flagship store in Riverton.

The majority of the museum’s assets, including rockers, chairs, town records, bills of sale and property transfers dating from about 1820-1860 will be moved by Northeast Auctions to the Armory in Manchester, New Hampshire. Auctioneer Ronald Bourgeault is scheduled to auction the antiques on Saturday and Sunday, November 1-2, 2003.

Headquartered and manufactured in New Hartford, Connecticut, The Hitchcock Chair Co., Ltd. and Hitchcock Fine Home Furnishings also maintain a finishing facility in Riverton, Connecticut where Lambert Hitchcock established the company in 1825. Privately held, with retail locations throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire, Hitchcock collections are also available at select furniture dealers nationwide. For more information, visit the Web site at www.hitchcockchair.com or call 1.860.738.0141.