ATTICA, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY COM)—Tucked away just over the train tracks in the village of Attica, a local family business quietly reached a milestone few companies ever see.  Last year, Attica Lumber marked its 100th anniversary, celebrating a century of serving the neighbors, farmers, and builders who have kept their doors open since 1925.

The story of Attica Lumber is one of steady persistence. Founded by R.F. Cook, the company began as a modest operation relying on local rail access to supply the community with lumber and coal. Over the decades, the business was maintained by the steady hands of four generations: first by Cook, then by his daughter and son-in-law, Marjorie and Fritz Miller, followed by Steve Stanek in 1976.

Today, the yard is led by Steve’s son, Josh Stanek. Joining the family business in 2009—a period of significant economic uncertainty—Josh saw his role expand, tasked with helping the company weather a difficult storm.

“I started during a pretty lean time for the company,” Josh Stanek remarked. “The economy was struggling, and we just did what we had to do to keep things moving.  We leaned into the internet, unconventional billboard ads, and recruited quality builders because we needed a way to re-brand the company.  It was very challenging bringing back the winning mindset but we were just trying to make sure the business was still here for the next generation.”

That “unconventional” approach helped the company maintain its footing, allowing them to continue their specialty in post-frame construction, truss manufacturing and increase inventory levels. Today, Attica Lumber remains a small-town operation at heart, providing lumber, hardware, and local delivery to customers across 15 counties.

While there are no grand festivities planned, the 100-year mark serves as a moment of reflection for the Stanek family. It is a tribute to the hard work of the three generations that came before  me and the community that continues to trust them with their building projects.

“It hasn’t always been easy.  Every generation of our family has had their own hurdles to clear,” said Stanek. “We don’t take it for granted. We’re just thankful to still be here, a century later, doing what we do and keep grinding.”