Historic Mills of Connecticut

Companies Associated w/Complex

• Fred K. Braitling Inc. c.1913

Use (Historic)

• Consumer Products, Small Appliances

Largest Documented Workforce

300

Historic Narrative

Charles F. Braitling, born in France, came to Bridgeport as a young man and worked at the Wood Brothers' carriage factory in Bridgeport. In 1869, having repaired dolls and made shoes for them in his toy business, Charles recognized a market and started the business making leather dolls' shoes. Upon his retirement in 1869, he was succeeded by his son, Fred K. Braitling. Under Fred's management, the firm manufactured doll shoes, doll bodies, doll wigs and other accessories at this Bridgeport facility. The doll shoes were made in over thirty styles, reflecting fashions for children and women, and were glued or sewn. The wigs were made either of human hair or of mohair. Other doll accessories included stockings, belts and auto goggles. As of 2017, the building is occupied by Identification Products Corp., maker of custom labels, nameplates, etc.

Number of Existing Buildings

one

Dates of Construction

c.1910

Architect

n/a

Builder

n/a

Building Type

n/a

Architectural Description

The two story mill structure measures 52 feet wide by 152 feet long and was outfitted with a sprinkler system.

Exterior Material(s)

• Brick

Structural System(s)

n/a

Roof Form

• Gable

Roof Material

n/a

Power Source

n/a

Condition

n/a

Condition Notes

n/a

Specific Location

north side of Silliman Avenue east of Ash Street

Adjacent To

n/a

Exterior Visible from Public Road?

Yes

Parcel ID / Assessor Record Link

• 19/ 1219/ 12 / Link →

Acreage

0.36

Use (Present)

• Industrial
• Other: For sale 3/2022

Form Completed By

n/a

Date

n/a

Bibliography

1. History of Bridgeport and Vicinity, volume 2, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1917.