Unveiling the Legacy: A Journey through the History of Foxboro

For over a century, Foxboro has stood as a beacon of innovation. Setting the industry standard and revolutionizing the world of industrial instrumentation. From its humble beginnings in 1908 as the Industrial Instrument Co., founded by brothers E.H. and B.B. Bristol in Foxboro, Massachusetts, Foxboro embarked on a journey marked by perseverance. Their dedication to ingenuity and commitment to excellence propelled them forward. Leading Foxboro to its current status as a global leader renowned for quality, reliability, and innovation.

In the early 20th century, Foxboro embarked on its mission to deliver cutting-edge products to various industries. Industries that include oil and gas, petrochemicals, power, pulp and paper, food and beverage, water, and wastewater. With the introduction of round-case pressure gauges and temperature recorders in 1910, Foxboro quickly gained recognition for its superior craftsmanship and precision engineering. By 1915, esteemed names like Buick, Edison, Ford, and Firestone had become loyal customers, a testament to Foxboro’s reputation for quality and reliability.

The 1920s marked a period of significant innovation for Foxboro, as E.H. and B.B. Bristol focused on refining their processes and enhancing their product offerings. The development of the Model 10 Stabilog and the introduction of pneumatic controllers and operational amplifiers showcased Foxboro’s commitment to technological advancement and product excellence. Notably, the utilization of “Hydron” welded steel bellows in the Model 10 Stabilog demonstrated Foxboro’s dedication to durability and performance.

As the world entered the 20th century, Foxboro continued to lead the way in industrial instrumentation, embracing emerging technologies and pioneering new solutions. The 1950s and 60s witnessed the advent of solid-state electronic controllers and computers, marking a pivotal moment in Foxboro’s history. With the introduction of the M9700 process computer and the development of the first successful Magnetic Flowmeter, Foxboro solidified its reputation as an industry trailblazer, driving innovation and shaping the future of industrial automation.

Throughout the ensuing decades, Foxboro remained at the forefront of innovation, consistently delivering state-of-the-art solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers. From the refinement of electromechanical controllers and flowmeters to the introduction of advanced valve systems, Foxboro’s commitment to excellence never wavered. As the company entered the digital age, it continued to push the boundaries of possibility, leading the shift towards centralized control rooms and digital control systems.

In 2013, Foxboro entered a new chapter in its storied history, as Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, acquired it. Under the stewardship of Schneider Electric, Foxboro’s legacy of excellence continues to thrive, with a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. As we look towards the future, we honor Foxboro’s rich heritage and celebrate its enduring legacy as a pioneer in industrial instrumentation.

The history of Foxboro is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings in a small town in Massachusetts to its global prominence as a leader in industrial automation, Foxboro’s journey is a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its founders and the dedication of its employees. As we reflect on Foxboro’s remarkable legacy, we are inspired by its enduring spirit of innovation and its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in industrial instrumentation.