The story of Yale hardware begins in the country of Wales. Like many other families across the United Kingdom, the Yale family decided to begin anew in the New World. After leaving Wales, they settled in colonial America. Around 1840, Linus Yale Sr. began designing and manufacturing innovative locks in his shop in Newport, New York. These locks offered high security, which were increasingly important for business owners. He particularly specialized in handmade bank locks. His work would lay the foundation of the company from then on.

Ten years later, Linus Yale Sr.'s son joined the family business. He patented his father's pin tumbler cylinder lock, perfecting it in the process. Known as an accomplished locking expert of the time, Yale Jr. introduced the Monitor Banking Lock in 1862. This signaled a shift from key locks to more advanced dial or combination locks. However, this wasn't his only achievement. Yale Jr. also studied the locking mechanisms used by the ancient Egyptians and their unique attributes. In 1861 and 1865, he obtained patents for a new lock and went on to design the Yale cylinder lock. This was a breakthrough invention that continues to be a powerful lock on the market today. His success allowed him to found Yale & Towne company with his colleague Henry Towne in 1868. Padlocks were introduced to the Yale lineup and they even purchased Norton door closer company and H. and T. Vaughan Ltd. Yale & Towne thrived throughout the 20th century, broadening their catalog, and making highly regarded locks that were used worldwide.

In 2000, Yale was purchased by ASSA ABLOY. While a part of this global leader in door opening solutions, Yale door locks continue to be well-known and trusted options for home and business owners. Today, you'll find not only cylinder and padlocks in their inventory, but alarms, smart locks, bike locks, fireproof safes, security cameras, and more. When you're searching for new locks or safes, Yale is a name you can put your trust in. At Direct Door Hardware, we offer a range of Yale products, including commercial grade levers, locks, and door closers.