AUBURN — On Feb. 24, Thom. Moser furniture makers held a ceremony at the company headquarters at 72 Wrights Landing to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Among the dignitaries were U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, Auburn Mayor Jonathan P. LaBonte, John Butera, senior economic advisor to Gov. Paul LePage, and state Sen. Lois Snowe-Mello.

Former Bates college professor Tom Moser left teaching in 1972 and started making one-of-a-kind furniture in an old Grange hall in New Gloucester. His wife, Mary, managed sales and finances, while their four sons trained as apprentices.

Today, 70 employees make furniture that is sold worldwide.

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