The New England Fireworks Manufacturing Co. manufactured fireworks and created displays for theatrical performances and civic celebrations throughout New England. The company was incorporated in 1925 in Springfield, Massachusets. Within its first year of business, it was considered to be among the leading pyrotechnists in the state. Pasquale "Patsy" J. Napolitan (1899-1936) was the company president and general manager. He partnered with his brother, Sabato "Sabot" Napolitan (1893-1970), and Saverio Antonio Fiumano (1892-1981). The partners purchased a plot of land and a former business called Springfield Fireworks Company from retiring partner Gennarino (Gennaro) Esposito (1879-1952). The company headquarters were located on Union Street in Springfield, Massachusets. It also had a plant in neighboring North Thompsonville, Connecticut.

On June 26, 1928, the Napolitan family and the company suffered tragic losses. A car with four passengers arrived at the North Thompsonville plant to purchase powder and other materials to make fireworks of their own. As they drove away, one of the car's occupants was seen flicking or accidentally dropping a cigarette out the window, causing an explosion that killed all inside. Three of the four people were relatives of Patsy Napolitan through his wife, Lucy A. Anzalotti Napolitan (1908-1990): her two brothers, Joseph Anzalotti, age 14 (1914-1928); John Anzalotti, age 11 (1917-1928); their uncle Rosario Sarno, age 45 (1882-1928), who was married to their mother's sister; and William Doreski, age 19 (1909-1928). The story of the explosion and the young boys' deaths made national news.

On May 22, 1930, a series of explosions and several fires at the plant destroyed the factory and ended the business. One employee was injured; the injury was not life-threatening. The cause of the explosion was investigated, but the results were never reported.