Seigle’s Celebrating 140 Years!

in Seigles News January 11, 2021 0 comments

In 2021, Seigle’s celebrates 140 years since the founding! This means Seigle’s was established in 1881, just more than 100 years after the Declaration of Independence. Quite an accomplishment for a family-owned business!

A few highlights from our “century plus 2 score” history:

1881: The Founding.

The world looked a lot different when Seigle’s was founded in 1881 by Lee Borden, son of dairy mogul Gail Borden. Lee didn’t see much future in churning butter nor condensing milk. Instead he thought the burgeoning area could use a Lumber & Coal yard. Fast forward to 1941 when Harold Seigle bought the Company then known as Elgin Lumber Company. As the company expanded throughout the Fox Valley, it changed its name to Seigle’s.

For more Elgin history from the time around 1881, check out this “look back” story.

1881-2005: The Growth.

Seigle’s grew over time to earn a listing as one of the top 50 building materials dealers nationwide. Seigle’s topped the Chicago market, offering lumber, trusses, doors, trim, windows, and cabinets commanded the loyal following of over 2,000 contractors; from professional remodelers to production homebuilders.

TOP 50 Nationwide

500

2005: The Hiatus.

In 2005, Seigle’s was acquired by Stock Building Supply becoming part of the nation’s largest building material dealer, which lasted until Stock exited the market due to economic conditions in 2009.

2009-2021: Seigle’s Cabinet Center Today!

Mark Seigle and his family acquired the cabinetry operation at a time when the industry needed it the most! Homeowners, contractors, and homebuilders drawn to our family-owned focus and ability to “Deliver Value – Keep Promises – Be the Best” have led us to where we are today: 140 years after our founding, we are the largest distributor of kitchen and bath cabinetry and countertops in the Chicago market.