Simanski, Witkos Tour Local Historic Sites

Barkhamsted First Selectman Don Stein, State Sen. Kevin Witkos (R-8), Richard Swenson, managing partner at The Hitchcock Chair Company, and State Rep. Bill Simanski (R-62) tour the The Hitchcock Chair Company in Barkhamsted

BARKHAMSTED – State Rep. Bill Simanski (R-62) and State Sen. Kevin Witkos (R-8) last week visited local historic sites in Barkhamsted. The legislators toured the First Congregational Church of Barkhamsted, and The Hitchcock Chair Company, and met with key personnel in order to listen to their concerns. Barkhamsted First Selectman, Don Stein, facilitated the tour and meetings.

Rep. Simanski said, “Helping constituents in their interactions with the state is a rewarding part of my job as State Representative. The First Congregational Church and Hitchcock Chair Company have both been long-standing parts of Barkhamsted’s rich history. I will do all I can to help these two worthwhile projects and assist the Town of Barkhamsted in the process.”

“It’s important to understand the challenges faced by our local organizations and businesses. It’s also great to spend time at our nearby historic treasures learning about our community’s unique past so that we can do our best to preserve their futures and grow business,” said Sen. Witkos.

The First Congregational Church of Barkhamsted was incorporated in 1779 and is listed in both the State Register of Historic Places, as well as the National Register of Historic Places. The church is currently in need of roof replacement and structural repairs to trusses, rafters and other beams that threaten the integrity and ability of the roof to bear weight, such as significant snowfall. The church has been in contact with the State Historic Preservation Office and is seeking support from their legislators for their state grant request to address the structural roof repairs.

The Riverton section of Barkhamsted, formerly known as Hitchcocksville, has been home to the Hitchcock Chair Company since 1808. The company is known for producing quality hand-crafted, and hand-stenciled wooden chairs and furniture. The legislators toured the showroom and manufacturing facility, and spoke with managing partner, Richard Swenson about his business concerns.

Swenson stated that while people know about Hitchcock furniture quality and uniqueness, their business growth has been restricted. Swenson is seeking support from Rep. Simanski and Sen. Witkos to facilitate discussions with the CT Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) to identify ways to better support business growth including production, distribution and workforce.