After more than 180 years in operation, E.A. Clore Sons in Madison County has announced it will be closing its furniture manufacturing operation.

Located at 303 Clore Place in Madison off of U.S. 29, the business has posted an announcement on its website indicating that it "will cease manufacturing our handcrafted furniture within the year."

 
Noting that the business was once the nation's eighth oldest family business, the notification from the company stated that the decision to cease operations was a difficult one.

"We have produced solid hardwood, Early American furniture since 1830, using traditional methods of joinery," Clore stated in its notification. "Our craftsmen, many with 25 to 50 years of experience, worked with great pride, knowing the furniture they produced would be used for generations."

Clore said it will take a limited number of orders for furniture not yet in production "as manpower and materials allow." Prices for these items will include a "20 percent over retail" charge, the release stated.

"We have many items currently available in our showroom, and others in various stages of production," the release stated. "These items are currently priced at standard retail prices as supplies last."

Clore invited the public to visit its factory showroom during business hours, which are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

"Or call 540/948-5821 to speak with the office and place orders or to check on available stock," the release stated. "The family would like to extend to all of you our deepest appreciation for the support of this endeavor over the many, many years."

Business representatives could not be reached for further comment Tuesday.

(Source: fredericksburg.com  Author: CULPEPER STAR)