Our History

Constructed in 1877, the buildings originally housed a corset factory, hosiery mill, and later a sponge rubber products company, playing an important role in the area’s early industrial growth and employment opportunities.

In the 1930s, after B. F. Goodrich acquired Sponge Rubber Products, a network of passageways was built to connect all nine buildings, expanding manufacturing and storage operations while improving efficiency.

In 1974, following a devastating fire at another plant, the property at 415 Howe Avenue was sold. Nicholas Conti purchased it and established Conti Self-Storage, the first self-storage facility in the Shelton/Valley area. He also envisioned the site as a catalyst for downtown revitalization and long-term economic growth.

Today, over 50 years later, his daughter and grandchildren continue his legacy, working to bring commerce and community together while preserving the building’s historic character and significance for future generations, ensuring it remains a vital part of the community.