I went to Gilbert Center's place in Brooklyn today to have an umbrella made. I Had a look at of all of his sticks, canopy fabrics, frames, etc. I decided on a solid bark ash with a navy blue nylon canopy. He measured for size and said I should have it in a week or two.The brolly cost around 200 bucks, and while I cant comment on quality yet, seeing some of his past work, I am sure it will be a steal.
Gilbert turned 87 today and has been an umbrella maker/repairman all of his life. I talked to him a bit on how special it was that he was one of the last of his trade, and probably the last in the US. He just laughed it off and said how he wished he had gotten into something else when he was young. He said repairing umbrellas doesn't make you money.
He showed me a hand written letter from one of his clients who he restored a umbrella for. The umbrella was for the clients grandfather. He opened the envelope and said, where is the money? There's no money, it's nice to get a card like this, but I want to go on a cruise! While the bitterness was always followed with a smile, it was a bit sad to see.
If you're looking for a top quality gentlemans umbrella, why pay double the price for an umbrella when you can support a guy who has been making umbrellas all his life? You can get in touch with Gilbert on his cell at (917) 692-2078. If you're in NY, its worth a trip to Flatbush to check out his basement workshop. He can take orders over the phone too. He only takes checks or cash, so if you need a proxy, just let me know.
I'll post pictures when the umbrellas is finished.
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