NAPERVILLE, Ill. – July 23, 2026 – C.H. Hanson, a five-generation family business, celebrates its 160th anniversary in 2026, marking a milestone achieved by few American manufacturers.
Since 1866, C.H. Hanson has helped skilled tradespeople and manufacturers to work more accurately, efficiently, and safely through industrial marking, identification, and layout tools. What began as a stencil-making business founded by Danish immigrant Christian Henry Hanson has grown into a fifth-generation, family-owned company serving customers across North America.
“Our mission guides why and how we build. We are stewards of a craft entrusted across five generations, committed to designing dependable tools that honor the work of skilled hands.
“As we celebrate 160 years, our vision of ‘Building Great Community’ continues to guide us. We’re grateful for the employees, customers, distributors, suppliers, and industry partners whose trust has shaped our journey. Together, we invest in people, strengthen relationships, and contribute to communities where dignified work can flourish across generations,” said Phil Hanson, President and CEO of C.H. Hanson.
The company’s history reflects resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to craftsmanship. After founding the business in Chicago in 1866, Christian Hanson rebuilt following the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, establishing a legacy of determination that continues to influence the company today.
“Our tools remain trusted because we listen to the people who use them,” said Andrew Hanson, Vice President. “Customer feedback continues to play an important role in how we innovate, improve products, and support the industries we serve.
“While industries and technologies continue to evolve, our company’s values remain unchanged. From product quality and customer service to dependable product availability and long-term relationships, we remain committed to helping customers get the job done right. From our hands to yours, we continue to build products, support customers, strengthen communities, and invest in the future of skilled work,” said Phil Hanson.
Over the decades, C.H. Hanson expanded beyond its stencil-making roots through innovation and strategic acquisitions. Today, the C.H. Hanson family of brands—including Palmgren®, Superior Tool®, and EasyCAM®—serves professionals across industrial marking, identification, metalworking, plumbing, and inspection markets, helping customers solve challenges across a wide range of trades and industries.
About C.H. Hanson®
C.H. Hanson® marks its 160th anniversary in 2026, building on a legacy as trusted by skilled tradespeople and a fifth-generation, family-owned leader in steel stamps, stencils, tags, and layout tools that help professionals get the job done right. Headquartered in the greater Chicago area since 1866, the company manufacturers throughout North America,
The C.H. Hanson family of brands includes Palmgren®, Superior Tool®, and EasyCAM®. For 160 years, the company has remained committed to delivering quality products, responsive customer service, reliable product availability, and a tradition of developing tools alongside the professionals who use them every day.
Tools for Generations™ From Our Hands to Yours!
Media ContactCompany Name: C.H. HansonContact Person: Cassandra SmithEmail: Send EmailPhone: 630-880-1769Address:2000 N. Aurora Road City: NapervilleState: Illinois Country: United StatesWebsite: chhanson.com
