Here are a few we dug deeper on to learn their stories:
1. Woeber’s Mustard Company
Founded in 1905, Woeber’s Mustard Company has been producing condiments in the greater Springfield area for more than a century. Started by Carl Woeber after he immigrated to Springfield from Germany, the company started in Woeber’s own kitchen and was originally sold from door-to-door by horse and buggy. Today, the company continues as one of the largest producers of mustard, vinegar and horseradish-based products in the United States.
2. The Brain Lumber Company
This celebrated local hardware store has been serving the Springfield community since 1868. In 1890, the company moved to its current location on East Street, but it was destroyed in a fire in 1925. The business rebuilt itself and still provides products and service the community enjoys to this day.
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3. The Hickory Inn
This favorite Springfield eatery has a history more than 70 years in the making. Founded in 1947, the Hickory Inn offers plenty of family-style comfort food to hungry diners from the comfort of a log cabin. The restaurant offers a full bar and even has a classic, fully-functioning jukebox for those interested in a little old school — or new school — while they eat.
4. Chakeres Theaters, Inc.
Chakeres got its start under the name Chakeres Amusement Company. Founder Phil Chakeres originally opened the Princess Nickleodeon on West Main Street in Springfield in 1909, which operated for several years until it was closed and demolished.
In 1927, Chakeres opened the State Theatre, which still exists on South Fountain Avenue. The company eventually grew to over 80 screens at one point and is still family-owned today. The State Theatre, which originally closed in 1990, has reopened and now hosts live performances and silent movie screenings.
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5. Catanzaro’s
This Springfield staple has history dating all the way back to 1889. It started as a fruit and vegetable stand that was located at the old City Market. Over time, the Catanzaro family was able to open a storefront on West Main Street, and eventually, the current Russ & Joe Catanzaro’s Pizza and Subs was constructed on Dayton Avenue. The family sold fruits and vegetables during the day and pizza at night.
In the 1960s, the family focused on their produce business, but competition led them to revive their pizza business in 1995. Since then, it’s been providing Old World-style Italian for Springfield residents and some out of towners, like Vice President Joe Biden.
6. Benjamin Steel
This steel production company has roots dating back to 1935. Founded under the name Demana Iron and Metal Company, it started in founder Dominick Demana’s backyard. The business grew until 1962 when Demana’s son, Vincent, bought the business with the intention to expand it. In 1969, he bought the Benjamin Iron and Metal Company and the combined business was renamed Benjamin Steel the following year.
Today, the company is still family-owned and employs more than 150 employees, with branch locations in Dayton, Lima and Mansfield.
7. Mel-O-Dee Restaurant & Catering
Mel-O-Dee’s history in New Carlisle goes back to 1965, when founders Virgil and Sarah Childers purchased the restaurant, even though the pair had no experience in the industry. Sarah’s sister, Nina Hart, took over managing the business and ran it until 1970.
In 1974, the Childers sold the restaurant to their children and the business has stayed in the family ever since. Currently, the restaurant has third and fourth generation Childers family members at the helm. The local landmark specializes in classic diner fare like burgers and breakfast foods.
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