Founding of the Elgin National Watch Company

Background. Elgin, Illinois, was chartered as a city in 1854, setting the stage for industrial development. The arrival of the watch company shifted the local economy, reducing the importance of the dairy industry. The company was initially incorporated in Chicago but established its manufacturing complex in Elgin, which became the world's largest site dedicated to watchmaking for nearly a century.

Founding. The National Watch Company was incorporated in August 1864 in Chicago by Philo Carpenter and Howard Z. In September 1864, the founders visited the Waltham Watch Company in Massachusetts and convinced seven watchmakers to join their new venture. Four Elgin businessmen acquired property and donated 35 acres to the company, facilitating the move from Chicago to Elgin.

Development. The company reorganized in April 1865 and completed the factory in Elgin in 1866. The facility employed three generations of Elginites from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. The company officially changed its name to the Elgin National Watch Company in 1874, reflecting the common usage of the Elgin name for its watches.