CARR, ADAMS AND COLLIER COMPANY

Stock certificate, Photo courtesy: Bob Reding

CARR, ADAMS AND COLLIER COMPANY. Once one of the world's largest woodworking companies. Manufacturers of Bilt-Well Woodwork, the Carr, Adams and Collier Company's history began with the formation of the Carr-Austin Company on lower Main Street.

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With a workforce of two men, the company produced building woodwork until destroyed by fire in 1871. The company was rebuilt on Iowa Street and expanded to employ fifteen men. Fire again destroyed the firm in 1879, but the company relocated on Jackson Street between Ninth and Tenth STREETS.

The company was incorporated in 1887 as Carr, Ryder and Wheeler Company with a capital stock of $125,000. By February 16, 1890, continued expansion of the company led to an increase in the capitalization to $150,000. The firm's name was changed to Carr, Ryder and Engler Company.

Photo courtesy: Bob Reding

The company's name changed again in 1897 to Carr, Ryder and Adams Company. This name remained until 1938 when the firm's name became Carr, Adams and Collier Company.

During WORLD WAR II the company's war effort included the manufacture of footlockers and ammunition boxes in addition to its more traditional supplies to military bases. Progressing through the series of changes in name the company eventually became CARADCO.

Advertising measuring tape. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding

Advertising model. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding

Photo courtesy: Jim Massey