The Storied History Behind The USA’s Oldest Companies
As economic success ebbs and flows, it’s an achievement for your business to last ten years, let alone fifty. But some companies have lasted much longer than others - some are even hundreds of years old!
Max Bramwell, the creator of FounderPass, discusses the enduring legacies of some of America’s oldest companies.
Shirley Plantation, Virginia
This privately owned home and working farm was established in 1614. Max says, ‘It’s currently occupied by the 11th and 12th generations of the family who first founded the farm, and it takes the title of the oldest North American family-owned business.’ The house was placed on the National Register in 1969 and was later recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, Louisiana
This is one of New Orleans’ oldest surviving buildings. Contraband may have been originally sold here, and over the years many have claimed that it’s haunted. It’s possible a smithy once operated on the premises, but it was turned into a cafe in the 1940s. Thirty years later the building was also declared a National Historic Landmark.
C.D. Peacock, Illinois
This jewelry store was opened in 1837 by Elijah Peacock, and it has become Chicago’s oldest existing retailer. Although it was in the city center and thus directly threatened, its merchandise survived the Great Chicago Fire as it was stored in a fireproof safe.
Max adds, ‘The company was sold in 1969 and later became bankrupt. However, it continues today in a reduced form.’
Imperial Sugar, Texas
Imperial Sugar began in 1843 and has changed hands several times since then. In 1907, the name was changed to the Imperial Sugar Company. Today, you can still find Imperial Sugar’s refineries producing cane sugar in multiple states across the US.
Seaside Inn, Maine
Max says, ‘Amazingly, the same family has operated this business since it began in 1667!’ The Inn opened when John Gooch, one of the first settlers in the Cape Neddick area, arrived. In 2009, ‘New England’s Yankee Magazine’ recognized it as the Maine lodging with the ‘Best Family Ties.’
Max says, ‘Whether it’s ‘The Deseret News’ or the ‘Austin and Bell Funeral Home’, the continued existence of such companies is inspirational. The entrepreneurial spirit in America has existed for centuries, providing amazing examples of what people can achieve while pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.’
Ends
About Founderpass
FounderPass is a platform offering perks, benefits, and deals on software and resources for both startups and established businesses. It aims to help businesses save money on tools, access exclusive discounts, and receive advice on growth. FounderPass emphasizes community building, offering memberships (free or paid) with access to over $1 million of discounts and perks. Founderpass was created by entrepreneur Max Bramwell.
Post courtesy of FounderPass
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