One of the oldest industries in Alabama has shut its doors for good. Calhoun County based Lee Brass closed on Monday, leaving 128 employees without a job. Founded in Anniston in 1917, Lee Brass made plumbing fittings such as cut-off valves, and copper castings, among other products. Last year the company was sold to Michigan based Fidelis Holdings LLC.

The closure, which took place on Monday, was a shock to many of the employees, who were informed last Friday that the plant would be only temporarily shut down for the week, The Anniston Star reported. They were instructed to call in on Friday, August 16, for an update on the status of operations. Instead, they were told on Tuesday to pick up their belongings.

Scott Chambers is the News Director and Senior Anchor for the YHN Radio Network. @ScottChambers