Hallagans mark 100th year
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On December 29, Charles, Steven and Walter Hallagan sent a letter to all Hallagan employees and retired people.

The management is sharing financial rewards with everyone who has contributed to Hallagan's success.

The letter indicates that 2000 is the 100th year of Hallagan Manufacturing Company. Simon Hallagan started the business in 1900 with four other people. It was known at that time as Wagner Brothers Company and was located in Utica.

In 1902 they moved to Canastota, where Simon and his wife were living and raising their family. The name was changed to the Canastota Couch Corporation. Then, in 1913 Simon and F. E. Thompson bought out the rest of the partners and moved the firm to Newark, where they had purchased the old Mora Automobile plant. The Company was then known as Hallagan-Thompson Company.

In 1923 Simon's sons, Stuart and Walter, entered the business and Mr. Thompson's interest was bought out. The name was changed to Hallagan Manufacturing Company as it is known to this day. A few years later their younger brother, Edwin, came in.

The third generation came along in 1950 when Charlie joined the firm and his brother, Dick, came aboard in 1959.

The fourth generation entered the scene when Steve began work in 1980 and Walt in 1986. Now Steve and Walt manage the business, and Charlie is still somewhat involved.

The letter adds: 'At this point we want to thank all the fine Hallagan employees that have helped us to success over the years - both present and retired people. To help commemorate this event we are going to issue a check to all employees with one year service for $100. Also this check will be sent to any of our retired people who have had at least 20 years with us or their surviving spouse. We feel that the four generations of Hallagan employees have made a rather remarkable accomplishment and we also want to say that the Company is in great shape, going strong and looking forward to their second century in business.'

In recent photo are the Hallagans - Steve, Charlie, Dick and Walt. In photo taken circa 1930 are Simon E. Hallagan and his sons: (left to right) Walter H., Simon E., Stuart D., and S. Edwin Hallagan.

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