Reps. Zawistowski and Simanski Tour Hitchcock Chair
(L to R) Rep. Simanski, Rick Swenson, Rep. Zawistowski
Riverton – State Representatives Bill Simanski (R-62) and Tami Zawistowski (R-61) toured Hitchcock Chair Company with owner Rick Swenson. Hitchcock Chair Company was first started in 1818 by Lambert Hitchcock and will be celebrating its 200th anniversary. The company was an early example of Connecticut innovation, introducing mass production for chairs originally shipping legs, seats and backs as kits. Hitchcock chairs became known nationwide for their durability and design. Rick Swenson and his business partners bought the brand name in 2010 and restarted production after a brief hiatus using original templates, plans and stencils. Rick Swenson shared his concerns about the difficulties of operating a small business in Connecticut especially the tax and regulatory environment. Additionally he pointed the out migration of middle class households from Connecticut, who make up a significant part of their customer base, has hurt his overall business. The company has no plans to leave Connecticut and is hoping to expand their production facilities.
Rep. Zawistowski shared, “It’s wonderful that Rick stepped up to continue the Hitchcock tradition of fine craftsmanship. Hitchcock is an iconic brand and part of Connecticut’s history of small business innovation and industry.”
Rep. Simanski reported, “It’s incredible that Hitchcock will be celebrating their 200th anniversary this year. Our community has some tremendous assets that can attract people from all over to visit, shop or start a home. My goal this session is to help small businesses, like Hitchcock , with legislation to remove the obstacles and promote growth.”
Both Representatives are committed to making Connecticut a place where businesses of all sizes can grow and thrive. For more information about Hitchcock visit their website www.hitchcockchair.com.