On May 5, 2025, J.C. Newman Cigar Company commemorates 130 years since its founding by Julius C. Newman in 1895. Now in its fourth generation, the family-owned business continues to operate as a premium cigar maker in the United States. The company maintains its traditional hand-rolling techniques at its historic El Reloj factory in Tampa, Florida, known as “Cigar City.”
In 1895, the U.S. was home to 42,000 licensed cigar factories. Today, El Reloj stands as the last traditional cigar factory still operating in the country. “Walking inside is like stepping back in time,” the Newman family notes. The factory welcomed 20,000 visitors in 2024 for its cigar museum, guided tours, rolling classes, and events. Plans are underway to open a restaurant, cigar lounge, and small hotel at the site in 2026.
Over the past 130 years, J.C. Newman has navigated challenges including two World Wars, the Great Depression, the Cuban Embargo, smoking bans, tax increases, and FDA regulations. The company produces cigars at El Reloj, its PENSA factory in Nicaragua, and in collaboration with the Fuente Family in the Dominican Republic.
To mark the anniversary, J.C. Newman encourages enthusiasts to enjoy one of their cigars and share their experience on social media with the tag @j.c.newmancigarco. Additional ways to engage include watching the documentary Hand Rolled: J.C. Newman, reading the e-books of J.C. Newman’s Smoke Dreams (1958) and Stanford J. Newman’s Cigar Family (1996), or visiting El Reloj to explore its cigar-making heritage.
“The secret to our family’s success and longevity is an unwavering commitment to handcrafting high quality cigars and the tremendous support that we receive from customers and friends like you,” the Newman family stated. They expressed gratitude and a commitment to continue their craft for future generations.
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