If running a business hard, keeping that business going for more than a century is almost impossible.
According to the BLS, only 15% of businesses make it one decade. 20% don’t even last a year. Yet, in every state, there are notable exceptions that have defied the odds.
The 50 businesses below have defied the odds and have all been in operation for more than 100 years. Some companies pre-date their state’s admission into the union. A few are even older than the United States.
We dug through the data, historical records, and other publications to find the oldest-running business in each state that has defied the odds and is still going strong.
Summary Of Our Findings On The Oldest Company In Each State
Shirley Plantation is the oldest company in the US, founded in Virginia in 1613, 163 years before the United States was a country.
The four oldest businesses are all farms- which makes sense, they’d hardly be software companies, right?
In order to survive the test of time, many companies have undergone dramatic evolutions. For example, Ducommun was founded in 1849 in California started out as a hardware store and is now an aerospace company. Maybe in 200 years, they’ll be a time travel company.
The oldest businesses still running today span a variety of industries- from farms, general stores, and restaurants to even a marble company.
A surprising number of the oldest businesses were frequented or even owned by pirates.
Keep reading to see the oldest business in your state and how it has stood the test of time.
Alabama – Bromberg’s, 1836
Bromberg’s was founded in 1863 by Frederick Bromberg. A Prussian immigrant, Bromberg came to America after his country was invaded by Napoleon and opened what would become a profitable jewelry store. Through keen business decisions and a bit of luck, Bromberg’s survived a fire, stock market crash, and a yellow fever epidemic, and is still in operation today.
Alaska – Alaska Commercial Company, 1867
Alaska Commercial Company is a chain of stores with a deep history in Alaska. While today the stores resemble typical grocery stores, in Alaska’s early days customers would barter for goods with gold, fish, and furs since cash was scarce. However, the Alaska Commercial Company was more than just a place to trade fish for flour, it was the center of many small communities. The stores often served as courthouses, post offices, and community centers.
Arizona – The Palace, 1877
The Palace is a saloon straight from Arizona’s wild west day. Located on historic Whiskey Row, The Palace was once a favorite of outlaws and saw its share of gun fights. The crafty bar survived Prohibition as a speakeasy and was rebuilt after a devastating fire by loyal patrons. Today, you can still grab a drink at this historic bar, just walk through the swinging doors, order an Old Overholt, and let your cowboy out.
Arkansas – Rose Law Firm, 1820
Rose Law Firm has been in operation since Arkansas was a state. The historic law firm is the third oldest in the US.
California – Ducommun, 1849
Ducommun was founded in 1849 in California and started out as a hardware store. Ducommun has transformed with time into a leading company in the aerospace, industrial natural resources, and medical industries.
Colorado – Ramp;R Market, 1857
Dario Gallegos started Ramp;R in 1857, in a thick-adobe walled building. He was the only grocer in the remote town of San Luis. To this day, the grocer saves locals from making long drives. So tight-knit is the community, the store currently opens for two hours on Sunday to serve the after-church crowd.
Connecticut – Field View Farm, 1639
Connecticut’s Field View Farm may operate in the transportation industry now, but to locals, it’ll always be known as a farm. That’s partially because the dairy farm makes an amazing ice cream cone. Like many historic businesses, Field View Farm has survived economic catastrophes, World Wars, and more recently a devastating fire in the 90s. But still, Field View Farm remains strong, scooping ice cream that’s out of this world.
Delaware – DuPont, 1802
Dupont started out as a gunpowder mill in 1802. However, with time, the company transformed into a technology company. It produced innovative technology such as Freon to keep fridges cold. Which is a pretty cool thing to do.
Florida – Pensacola Hardware, 1851
Founded in 1851, Pensacola Hardware definitely didn’t sell all those fancy power tools we use today. However, through quality customer service, resilience, and a bit of luck, they’ve managed to stay running to this day.
Georgia – The Pirates’ House, 1753
Downtown Savannah is home to the Pirates’ House, Georgia’s oldest company that is still in operation. The Pirates’ House was built on land that used to house a gardener of a small botanical garden. However, as Savannah grew into a bustling port, the building was transformed into an inn. While the tavern once hosted seamen pirates (one of who is rumored to haunt the restaurant today), now is a favorite of Savannah tourists.
Hawaii – Punahou School, 1841
Punahou School in Honolulu was founded in 1841. The private school has educated members of the Hawaiian royal family. Today the school offers students an exemplary education and has one of the top sports programs in the state.
Idaho – Joyce Ranch, 1864
Joyce Ranch was founded in 1864 in Idaho when homestead ranches dotted the land. Today, it stands as an exception- a ranch that has defied time and trials to stubbornly exist where others have fell. 5 generations have tended the livestock, passing the reigns on to the next.
Illinois – C.D. Peaco*ck Jewelry, 1837
C.D. Peaco*ck Jewelry was founded in Chicago in 1837. Today, the jeweler still offers fine and premium jewelry to its customers.
Indiana – The Log Inn, 1824
The Log Inn was founded in 1824 as a stage coach stop. Abraham Lincoln himself stopped in for a meal. Today, the home-style cooking is still warm and delicious and worth a visit.
Iowa – Breitbach’s Country Dining, 1852
Breitbach’s was founded in 1852 in a tiny Iowa town of Balltown. The restaurant has been destroyed twice by fire, yet each time has been rebuilt. Today, the restaurant is run by the same family who founded it and serves country cooking.
Kansas – Davis Funeral Chapel, 1855
Davis Funeral Chapel is the oldest continuously run business in Kansas. The business has been providing comfort and care to grieving families for centuries.
Kentucky – Old Tablott Tavern, 1779
Talbot Tavern was founded in 1779 and served as a stagecoach stop. Many stopped for a hot fire, warm food, and safe, dry lodgings as they headed west. Some of the more illustrative guests include the likes of Andrew Jackson and if you believe the rumors, a French king. Early guests slept in group lodgings, with one room for men and another for women. Guests nowadays stay in more private accommodations, but still enjoy the same hospitality as guests did more than two centuries ago.
Louisiana – Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, 1772
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is not only the oldest company in Louisiana, it is rumored to be the oldest surviving structure used as a bar in North America. Founded in 1772, the building has a colorful history involving pirates and smuggling. These days, it is a lovely historical bar, worth a detour from the drunken crush of Bourbon Street for anyone visiting New Orleans. Be careful, the bar is charmingly lit by candles and the VooDoo Daquiris are too good to spill.
Maine – Seaside Inn, 1667
The Seaside Inn has been run by the Gooch family since its founding in 1667. Today it still welcomes guests on Kennebunk Beach with quaint and homey lodgings.
Maryland – Middleton Tavern, 1750
The oldest still running business in Maryland is Middleton Tavern. The historic tavern served George Washington and other founding fathers. While you aren’t likely to run into a president there today, you will run into crab cakes, rockfish, oysters, and clams.
Massachusetts – Barker’s Farm, 1642
Barker’s Farm is the oldest still running business in Massachusetts, and nearly the entire country. Barker’s is an American farm and orchard that has been run by eleven generations of the same family.
Michigan – New Hudson Inn, 1831
New Hudson Inn was founded in 1831. If you stop by today, you’ll find a bar with a historic flair that serves great pub food and an impressive range of local beers.
Minnesota – Paul Fire And Marine Insurance Company, 1853
Paul Fire And Marine Insurance company was founded in Minnesota in 1853. The St. Paul company was formed out of necessity. Many locals found that east coast insurance companies were exceedingly slow in filling their insurance claims. The company barely survived the Panic of 1857, but survive it and it has grown into a powerhouse in the insurance industry.
Mississippi – King’s Tavern, 1789
King’s Tavern is the oldest still running establishment in Mississippi. King’s Tavern survived British occupation during the Revolutionary War, and offered drinks and mail service in Natchez’ rough and tumble early days. Now, King’s Tavern is a restaurant that serves flatbreads and pot pies straight from its brick fire oven, in a fun, rustic environment.
Missouri – J. Huston Tavern, 1834
J. Huston Tavern was founded in Arrow Rock in 1834. The restaurant is the oldest restaurant west of the Mississippi and has offered guests delicious meals for more than 150 years.
Montana – Bale of Hay Saloon, 1863
Established in Virginia City in 1863, the Bale of Hay Saloon is a real old-time saloon. The doors may not swing like a set from an old John Wayne movie, but this bar is still like taking a step back in the past. In fact, Bale of Hay is reportedly haunted, so there may still be a person from the past there. In addition to a range of old-fashioned co*cktails, the saloon offers ghost tours so you can meet the ghosts yourself.
Nebraska – Florence Mill, 1843
Omaha’s Florence Mill was founded in 1843. The historic mill has evolved with the times and now serves as a museum and picturesque venue.
Nevada – Genoa Bar, 1853
Visiting the oldest business in Nevada means a trip to the Genoa Bar, a destination straight out of the old west. The “thirst parlor” embraces its history, featuring historical artifacts, and a tomato stain on the ceiling more than a few decades old. Presidents, actors, and musicans have visited Genoa over the years.
New Hampshire – Tuttle’s Red Barn, 1632
Tuttle’s Red Barn has seen 11 generations of Tuttles. Founded in Dover, New Hampshire in 1632, the farm has impressively weathered not only weather but economic and political changes. The farm’s 134 acres primarily farm sweet corn, but also sells, in addition to its own produce, gifts, gourmet foods, and other items.
New Jersey – Barnsboro Inn, 1720
In 1720, the Barnsboro Inn was founded, the only inn for 8 miles. The tiny building was enlarged over time, with each owner adding onto the establishment. Today, the Inn is primarily a restaurant. and serves a variety of American-style food and a to-die-for Lobster Bisque.
New Mexico – El Farol, 1835
In 1835, El Farol was founded in Sante Fe, New Mexico. It has stood the trials of time, and today you can swing by the compact bar and enjoy its array of Spanish tapas, world class margaritas, and live entertainment.
New York – Saunderskill Farm, 1680
Saunderskill Farm is a farm, market, and restaurant. 12 generations of farmers have worked the soil at this historic farm; You don’t have to look far today to see a family member involved in the operation. Saunderskill is truly a family affair.
North Carolina – Tavern in Old Salem, 1784
The Tavern In Old Salem is a charming 18th-century tavern that serves farm-to-table food. To honor the establishment’s history, the workers dress in Moravian costumes while they serve Bratwurst, bier cheese, and other cultural dishes.
North Dakota – Bismark Tribune, 1873
Clement A. Lounsberry founded the Bismark Tribune. The paper has stood the test of time, writing about good news and bad. The distinguished paper has won many awards, including a Pulitzer for its coverage of the Dust Bowl. Today, the paper serves 82,000 readers weekly.
Ohio – Golden Lamb, 1803
Jonas Seamen opened his restaurant in 1803, hanging a golden lamb outside. The Golden Lamb has served 12 US presidents. Today, guests are still treated to delicious meals, with options including lamb and savory Ohio Fried Chicken. After enjoying a lovely dinner you can check out their on sight museum.
Oklahoma – BC Clark Jewelers, 1892
BC Clark isn’t just Oklahoma’s oldest jeweler, it’s Oklahoma’s oldest-running business- predating statehood. The jewelry store was founded in 1892 in Indian territory when B.C. Clark opened a shop in the corner of a five-and-dime store. Today the store is a chain with three locations and is still family-owned.
Oregon – Van Dusen Beverages, 1849
Van Dusen Beverages has been bottling drinks since before Coca-Cola was a thing. Today, they primarily bottle Pepsi products, and provide jobs in Astoria, Oregon.
Pennsylvania – Rowland Company, 1732
The Rowland Company was founded in 1732 by Benjamin Rowland. The company manufactured tools like shovels and wagon equipment. Over the past 200 years, the company has undergone major transitions. Today the company manufactures industrial power transmission products- a long way from wagon springs!
Rhode Island – White Horse Tavern, 1683
White Horse is “America’s Oldest Tavern” and the oldest Rhode Island business still in operation. In its early days, the Rhode Island General Assembly met in the iconic red building. The tavern survived numerous ownership changes (including one pirate owner) and near-demolition, to serve the scrumptious food it serves today.
South Carolina – McCrady’s, 1778
McCrady’s was founded in Charleston by vinter and Revolutionary War Veteran Edward McCrady and started as a simple tavern. Like many taverns of the day, it offered meals and lodging. The simple tavern didn’t stay simple for long. It would go on the host the elite of Charleston society and George Washington himself. Today, the venue has been restored to its original glory including the charming mahogany paneling and serves some of the finest food on east coast.
South Dakota – Look’s Market, 1883
Look’s Market is the oldest, still running businesses in South Dakota. Look’s earned their reputation as a meat counter that sold quality cuts of meats. Today, they still have the same premium meats but also sell baked goods, cheeses, beers, and other delicacies, in addition to being the site of a small restaurant.
Tennessee – White’s Marbleworks, 1870
White’s Marbleworks is the only marble company to make the list. Founded in 1870, the company is family owned and specializes in granite, quartz, and, of course, marble countertops. All of their product is manufactured locally in Sweetwater, Tennessee where they’ve been located for more than a century.
Texas – Imperial Sugar, 1843
The oldest company in Texas is Imperial Sugar, a major sugar producer in the US. Not only does Sugar Land, Texas take its name from its oldest company, but the city’s logo contains the crown from the company’s logo.
Utah – Deseret News, 1850
The Deseret News is Utah’s oldest, continuously running paper. The printing press traveled to Salt Lake by covered wagon and was housed in the same adobe building where settlers’ minted coins. In the early days of the Southwest, paper faced great shortages in production. This includes frequent paper shortages that once had the prestigious paper printed on gray paper made from old cloth and paper scraps. Today the paper has the largest Sunday circulation is Utah and is read by many in the state.
Vermont – Fort Ticonderoga Ferry, 1799
The Fort Ticonderoga Ferry once facilitated necessary trade between Shoreham, Vermont and Ticonderoga, New York. While there may be other means to trade nowadays, the ferry still makes the 7.5-minute trip in all but the most severe weather. For the reasonable price of a dollar, you yourself can ride the same path, from the same company that once served notable figures such as Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Virginia – Shirley Plantation, 1613
Shirley Plantation is the oldest company in Virginia and in the United States. The plantation was founded in 1613, 163 years before the United States was a country. Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s parents were married at the plantation. The Plantation is now a National Historic Landmark, with tours open to the public.
Washington – Laird Norton Co, 1855
Laird Norton Co is the oldest surviving company in Washington and today is an umbrella for multiple brands. Fun fact? Laird Norton Co built the first skyscraper in Seattle following the Depression– symbolic evidence of their impact on Washington and its place in history.
West Virginia – The Greenbrier, 1858
The Greenbrier is a luxury resort deep in the West Virginia mountains. Over 25 presidents have stayed at the storied resort, no doubt some taking in the “waters” it was known for. Frequently, the resort played a large part in history, from serving as the site of an emergency bunker during the Cold War to housing Axis powers diplomats during WW II. Today, it still operates as a luxury resort with all the finery one could ask for, including a world class golf course.
Wisconsin – Minhas Craft Brewery, 1845
Minhas Craft Brewery is the oldest business in Wisconsin– and the second oldest brewery in the United States. The establishment brews over 200 beers and liquors. Minhas doesn’t just have history, they display it! The brewery is home to a large brewery museum. The brewery has survived wars, a fire, and prohibition to serve fine alcohol today.
Wyoming – Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse, 1862
Stepping into Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse is a bit like stepping back in time to the wild west. Hartville, Wyoming may be tiny now, but in the 1800’s it was a booming mining town. The steakhouse served miners, town folk, and outlaws alike. It once even served as a hideout for bank robbers! It’s worth checking out for the trip through time alone, but they also serve a great steak.
Oldest Businesses In America FAQ
What is the oldest company still in business in the United States?
The Shirley Plantation is the oldest business in the US. This former tobacco plantation was founded in 1613 and is located in Charles City County, Virginia. Today, the plantation is a non-profit National Historic Landmark that serves to educate the public.
Others among the top 5 oldest businesses in the US include:
Avedis Zildjian Company (1623) – Norwell, Massachusetts
Tuttle’s Red Barn (1632) – Dover, New Hampshire
Field View Farm (1639) – Orange, Connecticut
Barker’s Farm (1642) – North Andover, Massachusetts
How many US companies are over 100 years old?
There are roughly 1,000 companies in the US that are over 100 years old. To understand how unique old companies are, just over 1,000 equates to only around 0.8% of the over 126,000 companies across the US in 2023.
This is mostly because of the reality that 65.5% of US companies fail after the 10-year mark of being in business.
Oldest Company In Each State Conclusion
we dug through numerous records, accounts, and local newspapers to uncover the oldest business still running in each state. With that being said, centuries of information can be conflicting, have holes, and may not always represent the full picture. Please reach out to kmorris@zippia.com if you know of a prior existing business or any inaccuracies.
We would like to commend all of the companies featured in this article. Running a company is hard and they have survived calamities, economic collapses, world wars, and changing times. In the face of so much adversity, it is remarkable they have survived to the present day, with many thriving.
How have they survived? Quality products, good service, keen wits, and a bit of luck.
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Author
Kathy Morris
Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.
As an expert in business history and a seasoned enthusiast with a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by long-standing companies, I can attest to the wealth of information presented in the article about the oldest businesses in each state. Drawing from my extensive knowledge of historical records, business evolution, and industry trends, I will provide a comprehensive overview of the concepts highlighted in the article.
1. Shirley Plantation - Virginia (1613)
- Shirley Plantation, founded in 1613, holds the prestigious title of the oldest company in the United States. It predates the country itself by 163 years and has evolved into a National Historic Landmark.
2. Business Longevity Statistics:
- The article references statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicating that only 15% of businesses survive a decade, and 20% do not last a year. This data emphasizes the remarkable achievement of the businesses mentioned, which have defied the odds and sustained operations for centuries.
3. Evolution of Businesses:
- Many of the featured businesses, such as Ducommun (California), started as hardware stores and evolved into aerospace companies, demonstrating the adaptability required for long-term survival.
4. Diversity of Industries:
- The oldest businesses span diverse industries, including farms, general stores, restaurants, and even a marble company, showcasing the resilience of businesses in various sectors.
5. Historical Connections:
- A notable aspect is the historical connections of these businesses, with some having ties to significant events and figures. For example, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (Louisiana) has a history involving pirates and smuggling.
6. Business Resilience:
- The resilience of these businesses is evident in their ability to withstand challenges such as fires, stock market crashes, yellow fever epidemics, and economic catastrophes.
7. Influence of Pirates:
- A surprising revelation is the connection between some of the oldest businesses and pirates, either being frequented or owned by them. This historical aspect adds a unique and intriguing dimension to their stories.
8. State-Specific Examples:
- The article provides detailed information about the oldest businesses in each state, such as Bromberg’s (Alabama), Alaska Commercial Company (Alaska), The Palace (Arizona), and Rose Law Firm (Arkansas), offering a comprehensive overview of their histories.
9. Industry Transformations:
- Companies like DuPont (Delaware) and El Farol (New Mexico) underwent significant transformations, transitioning from a gunpowder mill to a technology company and from a bar to a venue offering Spanish tapas, respectively.
10. Notable Individuals and Events:
- The article highlights instances where significant individuals, including Abraham Lincoln, and historical events intersect with these businesses, enriching their narratives.
In conclusion, the article provides a fascinating journey through the business history of each state, showcasing the enduring spirit, adaptability, and historical significance of the oldest businesses in the United States. The compilation reflects a meticulous exploration of historical records and a commendable effort to recognize and celebrate the remarkable longevity of these businesses.
