AMENIA — Henry G. Page started his business in Poughkeepsie in 1924 armed with nothing more than a Sears, Roebuck & Co. concrete block machine.
One hundred years later, Henry G. Page Lumber, Millwork, & Building Supplies is still in business, with stores in Poughkeepsie, Pawling and Amenia as well as a bulk business in Lagrangeville. The business has been expanding since the very beginning, and is well-known today to contractors, landscapers and of course, homeowners.
Page CEO Mark Whitney remarked: “As we celebrate a century of service our evolution is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the customers we serve. Page Lumber continues to be a thriving family business, with the grandchildren of Henry Page Sr. representing the third generation, actively involved as the board of directors. Here’s to another hundred years of excellence and growth, guided by the legacy and values of the page family.”
Page has kept its same location in Amenia, at 5291 US-44, since 2007. On entering, one notices immediately the orderliness of the business and the welcoming greetings from employees. Some of the best parts of small business ethics hang on here — a big store, modern and well-stocked with a friendly, neighborhood feel.
H.G. Page in Amenia.Judith O’Hara Balfe
The recent manager transferred to the Pawling store and has not yet been replaced. Juan Rivera, or JR, is the assistant manager, and has been with H.G. Page for 24 years, starting in the janitorial service and working his way up. He explained the ambiance of the store, that it is in attitude “old school” while being modern and savvy in all other manners. But customer service is first and foremost on the minds of the workers, and most seem to enjoy their jobs, which makes buying there a positive experience. “Happy crew members make happy customers,” said Rivera.
Olivia McKechnie is another Amenia employee who loves working for Page.
“I live in Amenia, so I know a lot of the customers,” said McKechnie. “I like helping them. These are good people to work for.” McKechnie worked there while going to school; she is now happily ensconced in a full-time job there.
She particularly likes working in the paint department, helping people to choose colors and finishes for their projects. She says that with Page, one can build a career, not just be employed.
From the beginning, and the first cement blocks made on Manchester Road in Poughkeepsie, the company has grown to include other sites and now offers a wide array of building items such as roofing, insulation, lumber, seasonal products, paints and fencing as well as making keys and selling storage products. Landscaping products are also offered.
The Poughkeepsie store stands on the birthplace of H.G. Page Sr. since 1970. And this dedication to tradition and heritage is also instrumental in the Page family remaining dedicated to serving and enhancing the communities in which they thrive.
The company expressed, through a press release, that its 100th anniversary not only marks its commitment to growth and innovation, but also a desire to continue to serve, and to express its gratitude and thanks to the customers who have been unwavering in their loyalty.
