Our company can trace its roots back to when Elbridge Sixsmith hired his first apprentice, Nathaniel Braunoser in September 1798.  The two would form a fierce pair in business, working hard and long for their clients in all things business.

Elbridge rapidly grew the company over the next few years and formally incorporated in March 1801.  Elbridge liked to say, "Thomas Jefferson became president of America on the same day I became president of Corporate America!"  When fitting three employees to each desk proved impractical, Elbridge moved the corporate offices to a large two story building on the corner of First and Main Streets where he and Braunoser occupied the second floor and the rest of the staff worked on the first floor at their new workstations, complete with windows overlooking the outdoors!  "Keeping them happy!" Elbridge had beamed.

Tragedy struck the company when Braunoser died at some time between Thursday, December 23, 1830, and Monday, January 3, 1831, at the ripe old age of 48, as he worked diligently at his workstation outside of Elbridge's office.  He was discovered when Elbridge returned from a long Christmas holiday spent with his family.  Elbridge had mentioned in the next shareholder annual report, "When I went on holiday, Braunoser was working when I left and his quill was stuck in his frozen hand when I returned.  A real company man through and through!"  Braunoser's son, Nathaniel Junior, began his apprenticeship the very next day.

Thus started the long standing tradition of working through all holidays in honor of "Nate."  Even after a couple hundred years, employees all still lovingly honor Nate's dedication.  Each year, the company awards the "Braunoser Badge" to the most dedicated employee.  That employee has the priviledge of wearing the Badge proudly during work that not only demonstrates his or her company loyalty but also serves as a motivational means for all other employees that vie for the coveted Badge!