Chickering Piano Factory
Posted by: NorStar
N 42° 20.315 W 071° 04.888
19T E 328531 N 4689468
Jonas Chickering's technical improvements catapulted the company to the fore in the 1840s, and when this building was completed, it was the largest factory in the nation.
Waymark Code: WMVWM
Location: Massachusetts, United States
Date Posted: 10/21/2006
Views: 123
There are two signs at this location, one from the Bostonian Society, and one from Boston 200.
The Bostonian Society Sign:
"The South End was the center of Boston's thriving piano industry. Jonas Chickering's elegant case designs and technical improvements catapulted the company to the fore in the 1840s.
"When it was completed in 1854, the 5-acre complex was the largest factory in the nation. Designed by Edwin Payson, it was powered by steam, employed 400 men and at its peak produced 60 pianos a week. During the Civil War, a portion of the mill housed Spencer's Repeating Rifle Co., whose firearms were credited with shortening the war. In 1972, the mill was converted into artist housing and studios."
Boston 200 Sign:
"The Chickering Piano Factory, once second in size only to the U.S. Capitol, has been a landmark on Tremont Street since 1853. Pianos were made here until 1929 and were played in many Victorian drawing rooms and in concert halls of Europe and South America. Mr. Jonas Chickering, founder, was said to be like his pianos, "Upright, Grand and Square."
"Today, the factory is a fine example of creative renovation. Now known as Piano Craft Guild, it provides living, work and exhibition space for visual artists, musicians, and craftsmen."
Agency Responsible for Placement: The Bostonian Society
County: Suffolk
City/Town Name: Boston
Agency Responsible for Placement (if not in list above): Not listed
Year Placed: Not listed
Relevant Web Site: Not listed
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