On December 30, 1903, Carl Prinzler, a longtime door hardware salesman, was in Chicago and narrowly escaped the devastating Iroquois Theatre Fire, which claimed 600 lives due to the inability of patrons to evacuate because of doors that opened inward. Deeply moved by the tragedy, he dedicated himself to creating door hardware that would remain locked from the outside while providing a safe and reliable exit for people inside. Partnering with his neighbor, Henry H. DuPont, an architect from Indianapolis, Prinzler developed a series of nine patents for improved exit door hardware. These designs focused on a single lever bar mechanism that would open a locked door with minimal pressure from the inside, positioned at waist height.
Around 1908, Prinzler, DuPont, and the Vonnegut Hardware Company formed a partnership to manufacture, market, and distribute the patented hardware. The resulting product, the Von Duprin Safe Exit Device, combined elements from each of their names and was produced under the Von Duprin brand. Manufacturing initially took place in Indianapolis, and later expanded to Chicago and Canada. Prinzler managed the manufacturing process starting in 1908 and was elected to the Board of Directors in 1910. DuPont, meanwhile, continued his successful career as an architect.
The Von Duprin Safe Exit Devices quickly gained popularity and were widely sold through a national network of independent sales representatives. These devices were installed in schools, hospitals, theaters, public assembly buildings, and other facilities across the U.S. and abroad.
Today, Von Duprin remains an integral part of the architectural and facilities management industry. As codes and technologies continue to evolve, Von Duprin continues to lead the way, designing and manufacturing advanced panic hardware solutions that comply with the latest safety standards. Whether it’s a retrofitting project or new construction, Von Duprin’s panic bars are known for their durability, reliability, and ease of use.
Von Duprin’s commitment to safety, alongside their focus on high-quality craftsmanship, ensures that their products will continue to protect lives for many generations to come. From schools and hospitals to stadiums and office buildings, Von Duprin’s legacy continues to be one of trust, safety, and innovation.