We can't be certain on what day back in 1886 that our founder and my great grandfather, George B. DeArment, set off on his first business trip to sell hand-crafted farrier's tools. Likely it was in the spring, after the muddy roads had hardened enough to allow a heavily-laden wagon to pass.

Here in Meadville, we often think about that day and what it set in motion. Did he imagine that he was laying the cornerstone of a company that would one day be known for American quality all over the world? Or was he just hoping to make enough money to get through the year?

Could he have imagined that several acres of property he owned in the small town of Meadville would one day be home to a thriving manufacturing facility? Probably not.

Yet, this is where we found ourselves on Saturday, Aug. 13. More than 500 CHANNELLOCK® associates and their families came to 1306 S. Main St. in Meadville, Pa., home to our Plant 1 operations. It was there that we celebrated CHANNELLOCK’s 125th Anniversary, on the very ground George B. purchased in the late 19th Century.

While you might think it’s surprising that an American tool company, literally started in the days of the horse and buggy, would reach such a milestone, you wouldn’t if you could have attended our celebration. In addition to the children and adults having a good time on a beautiful summer afternoon, you would have seen that CHANNELLOCK® is fortunate to have the one of the best workforces in the world, with associates that truly care about making the best tools in the world.

As an example, seven associates were nominated by their peers to receive this year’s Falcon Award. It’s the crown jewel of our multi-faceted Falcon Program, which is designed to reward, encourage and celebrate CHANNELLOCK® associates at work, at home and in the community.

This year, I presented the award to Tongue & Groove Supervisor Wayne Byler. Byler was honored because he is always looking for ways to improve performance, keep his department running efficiently and make a better, quality product in a timely manner. He is always willing to work with or help anyone who needs it and he has an excellent attitude. Byler also has great people skills and is a good listener, which makes him an excellent supervisor. Outside of work, Byler spends time with his family and works at his small taxidermy shop.

Go to our Facebook page to see pictures from the picnic and Falcon Award ceremony.

It’s because of Byler, and many, many other associates just like him working today and generations ago, that we’re able to celebrate 125 years in business. And as long as CHANNELLOCK® continues to benefit from a dedicated workforce, we’ll be celebrating again in another 125 years.

William S. DeArment

President and CEO

Channellock, Inc.