(MASSACHUSETTS) Correspondence and other records of the New

Sale 2646 - Lot 210

Price Realized: $ 585

?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price

Estimate: $ 600 - $ 900

(MASSACHUSETTS.) Correspondence and other records of the New England Fireworks Company of Springfield. 23 items (16 letters received and 7 other documents) in one folder; minor to moderate wear. Various places, 1924-1927

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The company was headed by Italian immigrants Saboto "Patsy" Napolitan (1893-1970) and Gennarino Esposito. The letters are from suppliers (powder, wooden wheels, twine) and customers (the Massachusetts towns of Montague and Whittingham planning celebrations). The Montague Parks and Recreation director warned (we hope with tongue in cheek) "I am enclosing a clipping in regards to the fireworks at Greenfield July 4th, and look out for your self if our display is not a 100% better than Greenfield, notice the number of bombs and the finale." Also included are fireworks permits for displays at Brockton and Springfield, MA; a contract for a display staged for the Societa St. Oronzo in Windsor Locks, CT; an invoice for fireworks labels; a $15,000 bond filed with the state; and a pair of leases made out to the company (as Springfield Fire Works Company) for land in Agawam, MA, 1924.

The company's factory in Thompsonville, CT exploded in 1928, killing four instantly--a tragedy not covered here. Another four buildings exploded in 1930, which seems to have ended the company's existence.