This tremendous, 67,000 square feet, four story factory was originally built in 1908 for M. Stachelberg & Co. and the Esberg-Gunst Company. This building broke with convention and was constructed with a 50 foot width. Most factories were no wider than 45 feet as it was thought anything wider would have difficulties with consistent light throughout the floors.
Over the years, this factory was occupied by the following companies:
- M. Stachelberg & Co. / Esberg-Gunst (1908 – 1910)
- Alto Cigar Company (1910 – 1912)
- M.A. Gunst Company (1913 – 1917)
- General Cigar Company (1918)
- F. Arango & Company (1919 – 1922)
- Corral-Wodiska y Ca. (1925 – 1985)
Brands: Julia Marlowe, Bering, Manatia and Regreso
On the top rear corner of the building, the company name “Corral Wodiska y Ca” can be seen. On the top of the side elevator shaft, the name “Bering Cigars” is visible.
One of their most popular brands, Bering, was first produced in 1905 at their original factory on N. 14th Street, west of the Perfecto Garcia and Regensberg factories. This original factory no longer exists.
Photo Gallery (click images for full view)
Corral, Wodiska y Ca was bought by Swisher Sweet’s in 1985. Swisher consolidated its manufacturing processes and relocated Bering cigar production to Honduras, where they are still being manufactured.
The building is now used as multi-tenant office space.