Elmira’s connection to vintage appliances dates back three generations. Founder Tom Hendrick’s father supplied woodburning cookstove parts to local Mennonites from his hardware store in Elmira, Ontario. In 1975, Tom saw an opportunity to supply complete cookstoves to the local market and, potentially, all of North America. He acquired the rights for the Findlay Oval cookstove, and began manufacturing in a former chicken barn just outside of Elmira. The popularity of the stoves grew, and consumers soon began to ask for similar styling in gas and electric models. The nineties saw Elmira expand its “Antique” line, with the addition of refrigerators, wall ovens, microwaves and dishwasher panels; all offered in rich, traditional colors (Black, Bisque, White, Cayenne Red and Liberty Blue) and the same vintage-styling. In 2001, Elmira took a sixty-year leap forward, adding 1950’s-styled fridges to its 1890’s-styled appliances. The fresh colors – Candy Red, Robin’s Egg Blue, Buttercup Yellow, Mint Green; along with more subtle Black, Bisque and White – smooth curved lines and bright chrome accents, were an immediate hit. In 2009, Elmira Stove Works returned to its roots in the cookstove business with the introduction of the revolutionary Fireview stove. The Fireview features modern clean-burn technology, a viewing window, and optional propane side burners… all while maintaining Elmira’s signature vintage styling.
Elmira is constantly upgrading the styling and performance of its products, yet the company remains committed to maintaining the authenticity and craftsmanship that sets them apart. It may seem like an unusual business plan – recreate from the past, with an eye to the future – but it’s a plan that has succeeded for Elmira Stove Works for over four decades!