Repurposed factory – Berlin, CT

This building on Main St., in Berlin CT was once a staple to this small community providing manufacturing jobs from 1893 until 2004.  During this time Sherri Cup, a division of Sherwood Industries, manufactured paper cups.  They were best known for their blue, white and gold paper cup that displayed the words “we’re happy to serve you”. A developer bought out the abandoned factory, began renovations and in 2013 had no problem selling hi-end condominiums. I’ve seen this so many times before through CT, MA & RI that it’s sad. I never intended for this blog to become political so I’ll just summarize my feelings this way.  These old brick mills and factories that dotted the landscape throughout New England put communities on the map.  They were the life blood that gave people and families a start and a future. You didn’t need a college education.  You just needed to put in a good day’s work and you stood a chance at providing a decent living for your family.  Which, by the way, typically consisted of (3-4) kids back in the 50’s and 60’s as opposed to (2) kids today. We all know where most of these good are manufactured now…….China. My home state of CT has taken such a bath with respect to the decline of large industry over the past 25 years that you just want to shake your head in wonderment.

Photographed with Sony Nex 7, Sony 10-20mm, F4.0  wide angle lens at 15 mm.