01/04/2026
Berlin Foundry & Machine Company has been a cornerstone of Berlin, New Hampshire’s industrial community for more than a century. Founded around 1900 as the Berlin Iron & Brass Foundry, the business was established by George Harkins and John Mahern to support the rapidly growing pulp and paper industry that defined the region’s economy.
In 1904, under their ownership, the company expanded into a larger, purpose-built facility and adopted the name Berlin Foundry & Machine Company, reflecting the addition of machining capabilities alongside foundry operations. For more than five decades, the shop operated under non-family ownership, serving local paper mills, rail operations, and manufacturers with custom castings, machinery repair, and precision metalwork. During this period, the company earned a strong reputation for durability, responsiveness, and skilled craftsmanship — qualities that established its long-term presence in Berlin.
A new chapter began in 1958, when the company was purchased by Armand Hamel, marking the start of continuous Hamel family ownership. Under Armand’s leadership, Berlin Foundry & Machine Company continued its traditional machining and fabrication work while expanding into specialized industrial equipment, including machinery used in paper converting and core cutting operations. His emphasis on innovation, reinvestment, and problem-solving positioned the business to withstand major economic changes in the region.
In 2008, ownership transitioned to Gary Hamel, son of Armand Hamel, ensuring continuity of family stewardship into the modern era. Today, Berlin Foundry & Machine Company operates as a full-service machine shop providing custom machining, fabrication, equipment design, and industrial repair services, while maintaining the hands-on approach that has defined the company for generations.
The business remains family-driven and actively operated with Gary Hamel as the Owner. Katelyn (Drafter) and Aaron (Machinist) are Gary Hamel’s children and represent the next generation directly involved in daily shop operations. Bonnie Hamel, Gary’s wife, oversees human resources, supporting the people behind the work and reinforcing the family-centered nature of the business.
With more than 100 years of continuous operation and a legacy shaped by both its early founders and long-standing family ownership, Berlin Foundry & Machine Company remains committed to quality, craftsmanship, and service.
The tradition lives on — not as history alone, but as work done every day.
