New York / New York / United States
History In 1860, an ambitious young man, James Thompson, decided to open his own textile mill. He saw the need to service the then huge Hat manufacturing industry located in the major East Coast cities of Boston, New York and Philadelphia. The product mix consisted of Buckram, Nettings and other basic support fabrics used by Hat makers. The Mill was built in the small town of Valley Valley FallsNY, about an hour north of Albany. At the time, the U.S. Textile Industry was concentrated in New England and upstate New York. After the Civil War, as the business grew, other fabrics were added, including Crinoline, Tickings, Muslins and Lining fabrics. A new Finished Products Division was added, making twine, carriage nets, Christmas stockings and hammocks. By the time the Depression hit, the Valley Falls Mill had 300 weaving looms in place, along with various Dyeing, Finishing and Sewing operations. The Company headquarters and Distribution center was re-located to New York City, in Greenwich Village. Before Henry Ford changed the world with his inventions, Thompson had a fleet of horse-drawn "trucks" to deliver Buckram to the NY Hat trade. During World War II, we manufactured Mosquito and Camouflage Netting for the Military. After the War, Thompson again adapted to the times by adding new products to appeal to the over-the-counter home sewing business, which really took off in the early 50s. Products such as Dyed Burlap, Sheetings, Nylon Net and Canvas helped our growth in this area. By 1970, the Valley Falls Mill couldnt handle the increased production load, so a new Mill was opened in Greenwood, Delaware. In the early 90s, Thompson opened a sewing operation in Hermosillo, Mexico. James Thompson & Co has grown and survived in the Textile business by adapting to change. As we enter our 3rd century in business, we are constantly updating Mill technology and product mix to service our customers!
