The original showerheads supplied with our houses were manufactured by the Speakman Company of Wilmington, Delaware. The 1931 patent drawing illustrates that model. The picture is a later version.

Speakman was founded by brothers, Allen and Joseph Speakman in 1869 as gasfitters, steamfitters and plumbing contractors. In 1880, the partnership was dissolved and Allen took over total control. The company turned to manufacturing out of necessity in 1898 when it was unable to locate needed brass fittings for a contracted job. By 1901, 42 employees worked in the brass shop and foundry. Son, Wilard A. Speakman assumed control of the company in 1905 upon the death of his father. For the next twenty years the company experienced major growth while it became known for its well engineered showerheads, protected by U.S. patents.

Beyond its prominence in the plumbing industry, Speakman has become known for its early adoption of employee welfare policies that included profit sharing and bonuses. In 2003, the Guinness Book of World Records listed a 91 year old employee of the firm as setting the record for longest service to one company at 75 years! Who knows, perhaps this gentleman was responsible for making some of our original parts!