Hartmann’s manufacturing began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where founder Joseph S. Hartmann worked as a trunk maker and established workshops that produced early trunks and travel goods in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1956, the company opened a manufacturing operation in
Lebanon, Tennessee, and the company's headquarters and plant facilities followed in 1959. Hartmann was bought by
Brown Forman Corporation in 1983. Hartman was positioned within Brown Forman’s then‑diversified consumer durables portfolio alongside Lenox. Brown Forman later exited non‑beverage businesses and sold Hartmann to equity firm Clarion Capital Partners in 2007.
Samsonite International acquired Hartmann from Clarion in May 2012 in an all‑cash transaction valued at USD $35 million, integrating the brand into Samsonite’s multi‑brand portfolio with plans to expand distribution and revitalize product and retail presentation. Following the acquisition the Factory and Head Office in
Lebanon, TN, closed in December 2012. ==References==