Our History

Built on Generations of Craftsmanship That Keep Your Timeline Moving

Barwick’s story began in 1958 with a sewing machine, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to doing quality work the right way. More than six decades later, those same values still guide everything we do.

Today, Barwick continues to serve the hospitality, healthcare, and commercial markets with custom window treatments and soft furnishings manufactured with care, precision, and accountability. What started as a small family business has grown into a trusted partner for projects across the country, without losing the hands-on approach that built the company in the first place.

1958

The Beginning

Chet and Merna Barwick established a tent and awning company that later expanded into manufacturing tarpaulins. Their son, Bob Barwick, began working alongside them at just 13 years old, learning every part of the business—from sewing and frame building to deliveries and installations.

That early foundation of craftsmanship and hard work would shape the future of the company for generations to come.

1960s

A Young Family with Big Ambitions

In 1964, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Janet. After serving in the Army, Bob returned home and together they launched their own tent, awning, and upholstery business across Iowa and Missouri while raising their growing family.

Even in those early years, the Barwick family built a reputation for reliability, determination, and quality workmanship.

1970s

Building the Business in Montevideo

In 1971, Bob and Janet purchased the family business from Chet and Merna and moved to Montevideo, Minnesota. They purchased a farm site and set up operations inside a pole barn while raising their three children—Angie, Jayne, and later Joe.

Those years required sacrifice and relentless effort. Long nights at the sewing machines became normal as the family worked together to meet customer demands and establish themselves in the agricultural covering industry.

That dedication paid off. Barwick Manufacturing grew into a nationally recognized name known for dependable products and dependable people.

1980s

Expanding into Hospitality

With growth came diversification. Bob and Janet purchased a former drapery company and expanded into curtains for the manufactured housing industry. Shortly after, they added quilting capabilities and entered the hospitality market.

By combining skilled sewing operations with a customer-first mindset, Barwick Manufacturing steadily built a reputation as a trusted bedding and drapery workroom serving commercial projects throughout the region.

This shift into hospitality laid the foundation for the business Barwick is today.

1990s

Growing the Team and the Facility

As the family grew, so did the company. Angie Peters joined the business in 1994, helping continue the next generation of family leadership.

Demand continued to increase, leading to major facility expansions and investment in a modern manufacturing operation. Barwick Manufacturing became known throughout the Midwest as a reliable partner capable of delivering high-quality workmanship at scale.

2000s

Inn Fashion and Third-Generation Leadership

As the hospitality side of the business expanded, the company began operating under the Inn Fashion name to better reflect its focus on hospitality interiors and soft furnishings.

A major milestone came in 2009 when Angie Peters became the third-generation owner of the family business. Under her leadership, the company continued to strengthen its reputation for craftsmanship, service, and long-term customer relationships.

During this period, the company also became a certified women-owned business backed by decades of combined industry experience.

2026

A New Chapter for Barwick

In March 2026, ownership transitioned from the Barwick family to the Tuffin family, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter while preserving the company’s long-standing legacy.

The Inn Fashion name was brought back under the Barwick brand, uniting the company’s history and future under one identity: Barwick.

Today, Barwick combines over 60 years of manufacturing experience with a modern, project-focused approach to hospitality and commercial window treatments. The company continues to specialize in custom drapery, roller shades, soft furnishings, measuring, and installation services for projects across the United States.

Looking Ahead

While the company has evolved over the decades, the core mission remains unchanged: deliver quality products, communicate clearly, and help customers keep their projects moving forward.

Barwick’s future is built on the same principles that started the business in 1958—hard work, honest relationships, and pride in the finished product.

It’s what we do best.

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