A Century-Old Pillar Maker Is Closing

The American Wood Column Corporation, a historic maker of ornamental woodwork in New York, is closing after more than a century in business, due to the retirement of its owner and dwindling demand for its traditional craft.

Thomas Lupo, president and CEO, announced the closure of his family’s business, which has operated since 1916. The company specializes in creating intricate ornamental decorations from compo—a mixture of sawdust, glue, and whiting—and has served notable clients including film productions, set designers, and historic restorations.

Despite a storied history, the business faces challenges such as sourcing rare ingredients like hide glue, and a declining market for ornate architectural features. Lupo, 72, and his small team of four craftsmen are planning to retire, marking the end of a craft that few in the U.S. still practice.

End of a Rare Ornamental Craft in the U.S.

The closure of the American Wood Column Corporation signifies the end of a nearly extinct craft of making ornamental woodwork from compo in the United States. It highlights broader trends of declining demand for traditional craftsmanship and the challenges faced by small, specialized manufacturing businesses.

This development impacts historic preservation efforts, set design, and architectural restoration projects that relied on the company’s unique skills. It also raises concerns about the preservation of artisanal techniques that are increasingly rare.

Historical Roots and Decline of Traditional Wood Ornamentation

The company’s roots trace back to 1916 when Lupo’s grandfather, an Italian jeweler, acquired the business and its building in East Williamsburg. Over decades, it became known for producing elaborate architectural features, including columns, medallions, and statuary, used in theaters, historic buildings, and film sets.

In recent decades, the demand for such ornate features has waned, replaced by sleeker modern designs and cheaper alternatives. The company’s work has included restoration projects for Brooklyn’s Kings Theater and set pieces for television and movies, but these niche projects are no longer enough to sustain the business.

“If I didn’t own the building, I would have been out of business years ago.”

— Thomas Lupo

Remaining Uncertainties About the Closure’s Impact

It is not yet clear how many projects will be affected by the closure or whether any other companies are poised to take over this niche craft. Details about the future of the company’s archives, molds, and remaining inventory are still emerging.

Next Steps for Preservation and Local Craft Heritage

The company’s owners and local artisans may explore options to preserve the molds and techniques, possibly through donations or collaborations with preservation groups. The physical assets, including the extensive mold library, could become part of a museum collection or educational resource.

Meanwhile, the closure signals a broader decline in traditional ornamental craftsmanship, prompting discussions about how to sustain such skills in the future.

Key Questions

Why is the American Wood Column Corporation closing?

The business is closing primarily due to the retirement of its owner, Thomas Lupo, and declining demand for traditional ornamental woodwork, compounded by difficulties sourcing rare ingredients.

What kind of work did the company do?

The company specialized in creating ornamental decorations from compo, including columns, medallions, and statuary, used in historic restorations, film sets, and architectural details.

Are there other companies doing similar work?

Few companies in the U.S. still practice this craft. The American Wood Column Corporation is believed to be one of the last in New York, making its closure a significant loss for this artisanal skill.

What will happen to the molds and archives?

It is still uncertain. There may be efforts to preserve the molds and techniques, possibly through donation or museum collections, but these plans have not been finalized.

Source: Curbed