Printer Friendly Version - MIF Monument Dedication Oct. 29

This historic photo of MIF in its prime includes much of the property that's now home to Stony Creek Brewery. On Oct. 29, a momunent outlining MIF history will be dedicated at the brewery.Photo Courtesy Branford Historical Society.

Several years ago, former Branford Police Chief Bob Gill set about initiating a project to erect a monument on the site of the former Malleable Iron Fittings Company (MIF) complex to bring attention to what was once the site of Branford's largest employer.

Even though it took longer than he hoped for, Chief Gill is realizing his wish now, thanks to Stony Creek Brewery owner Ed Crowley, who agreed to undertake the project. The new brewery stands on a portion of the former MIF factory site.

On Thurs., Oct. 29 at 3:30 p.m., the public is invited to a dedication ceremony and unvieling of the commemorative MIF monument at Stony Creek Brewery, 5 Indian Neck Ave. The new monument outlines the history of the MIF plant. It will be located outside the brewery's main entrance, next to the flagpole.

"The monument is dedicated to the Hammer family, founders of the company, and the men and women who worked at the Malleable Iron Fittings Company and the many contributions they made to the Town of Branford," said Branford Historian Jane Bouley, a member of the monument committee.

"Ed Crowley is the reason this is now a reality,"said Chief Gill, who worked at MIF in the 1950's. "We are very grateful for his generosity and we are touched by his interest in celebrating the history of the MIF site."

Crowley was approached before construction began on the new brewery, and agreed to approve the location of the monument and underwrite the cost.

MIF began on the site in 1854 and at its peak produced 15,000 tons of inventory a year and had 1300 employees. The company was a leading manufacturer of galvanized iron pipe fittings, flag pole, marine, highway guard rail, bridge hardware and custom steel and brass products. Over the years, the production grew to 59 buildings over the entire factory site of 23 acres.

On Oct. 29, a brief program at the dedication will include comments by Chief Gill, Bouley, Crowley and Branford First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove.

On Sun. Nov. 15, former MIF workers, their families and descendants are invited to attend a reception at Stony Creek Brewery (3 - 5 p.m.) The monument committee encourages attendees to bring photos and share memories.