Curtis Packaging was founded in 1845 by Samuel Curtis and a group of investors to manufacture fancy combs and buttons on the same property in Sandy Hook, Connecticut that we occupy today. In 1870, Sam Curtis acquired sole interest in the business and later was joined by his son, Henry Gould Curtis. The delicate nature of the buttons and combs required them to ship in special rigid boxes. Henry Curtis found it more efficient to construct the boxes on site. In the late 19th Century, Curtis & Sons began manufacturing two-piece rigid boxes.

As the fancy buttons and combs lost their appeal, the packaging business flourished. During the early 1900s, Sam’s grandson William emphasized the production of packaging. By 1920, Curtis exclusively concentrated on designing, printing and converting folding cartons.

In 1950 William’s son Nelson assumed the presidency, Nelson launched an era in which Curtis emerged as an innovative leader in custom packaging. When Nelson Curtis phased himself out during the ’80s, the company was purchased by five of its executives and kept on growing.

At the end of the 1980s the five owners started to contemplate retirement. Don Droppo Sr. was a Partner at Curtis’ trusted accounting firm, Peat Marwick. In 1989, Don acquired Curtis Packaging and immediately implemented new technologies to automate its workflow and keep Sam Curtis’ vision on track.

In 2003, Curtis Packaging became a family business yet again. Don Droppo Jr. joined the company as Vice President of Marketing. With the addition of Don Jr., Curtis ensures customers a solid foundation for continued success.

Since 1845, we have been fortunate to contribute to the success of our clients. Our vast experience will continue to earn their trust and guide us into the decades to come.