WASHINGTON -- MADE: In America, a not-for-profit educational organization based in Washington, will honor Century Furniture and and Duralee Fine Furniture, two iconic names in furniture manufacturing, for their work in supporting American manufacturing.

MADE: In America announced that its 2011 BEST award winner is Century Furniture of Hickory, NC. The award will be presented at the annual Take Pride in America celebration, held at the U.S. Capitol on July 4, 2011. The BEST: Made in America award recognizes outstanding American-made products and creations. Duralee Fine Furniture, Morganton, NC, is also being honored by the group with a Build It In America Award.

"Century Furniture has demonstrated a commitment to the highest standards of good corporate citizenship," said James De Lorbe, chairman and CEO of MADE: In America. "Throughout an era in which manufacturing has continuously shifted overseas, the company has a 60 plus year track record of ongoing production in the U.S. and to providing meaningful jobs to American workers." De Lorbe also praised Century for its innovation and leadership within the furniture industry and its long record of community involvement.

Eric Schenk, president and CEO of Century Furniture, said in a press release that the company is humbled and gratified to be selected for the honor. "Throughout Century's history we have always tried to not only produce the highest quality furniture we can, but also uphold the highest standards of corporate citizenship." Schenk said their company inherited a corporate legacy for giving back to the community from founder, Harley F. Shuford, who supported numerous community projects with his time and personal assets. "It is a legacy that we all honor and strive to uphold."

Century Furniture LLC, one of the largest domestic family owned furniture manufacturers, is based in Hickory, NC. Founded in 1947, it is third generation family owned and operated.

The 2011 Build it in America Award, which recognizes leading American companies who have made extraordinary commitments to manufacturing in the U.S., is being awarded to Duralee Fine Furniture. "Duralee Fine Furniture is exemplary in its field, and we congratulate the company and its employees for their long standing commitment to making –in America– the finest in hand-crafted furniture," De Lorbe said.  

A spokesperson for the company said, "Duralee Fine Furniture proudly bares the tag 'Made in the USA'. The company was created in 2005 as a division of the nearly 60-year old Duralee fabric brand and is part of a family-run, distinctly American company. Duralee Fine Furniture is committed to expanding the U.S. furniture industry and providing job opportunities within our borders."

MADE: In America also conducts the American Treasures Award program, to recognize and honor individuals making significant contributions to the American enterprise system. The group also offers a wide range of eductional programs and services in cooperation with a network of coalition partners through the American Enterprise Initiative and In Service to American Business.