In 1848, Charles Hager embarked on a journey from Germany to New Orleans, eventually traveling to St. Louis by wagon. A year later, he purchased a blacksmith shop, recognizing the opportunity to provide wheel rims and hardware to the influx of settlers heading west. Charles’s craftsmanship and quality quickly earned him a stellar reputation. By 1878, the blacksmith shop evolved into C. Hager and Sons Hinge Manufacturing Company, reflecting its transition to a family business specializing in high-quality hardware. Hager's reputation for excellence and innovation continued to grow, leading to collaborations with iconic brands like Budweiser.

As the 19th century closed, Charles Hager's commitment to quality and innovation positioned his company for future success. Under his son August W. Hager’s leadership, the company modernized its manufacturing processes and expanded its product line to meet the growing demands of both rural and urban construction. This period saw significant growth, including the production of custom hinges for the Panama Canal and substantial government orders during WWI. The Great Depression tested the company’s resilience, but Hager persevered, maintaining its workforce and stockpiling inventory to weather the economic storm.

Throughout the 20th century, Hager continued to adapt and expand under successive generations of Hager leadership. The company diversified its product offerings, including the introduction of commercial hinges, electronic access control systems, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Strategic relocations and modernizations of facilities ensured Hager remained at the forefront of the door hardware industry. Today, under the leadership of the sixth generation of Hagers, the company continues to honor its legacy of quality and innovation, positioning itself as a global leader in the industry. As Hager celebrates its 175th anniversary, it remains dedicated to upholding the values and craftsmanship that Charles Hager established over a century and a half ago.