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The Oldest Black-Owned Business in the U.S.

The Oldest Black-Owned Business in the U.S.
Posted By: How May I Help You NC on February 02, 2018
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The U.S. Department of Commerce recently recognized a Columbus, Ohio business as being the oldest African-American owned business in the United States. This year, they celebrated 134 continuous years in business. Can you guess what company it is?


The company that received this honor is the E.E. Ward Moving and Storage Company in Columbus, Ohio. The company was founded in 1881 by William S. Ward and his father, John. It was originally called Ward Transfer Line. The company is a recognized leader in the relocation and transportation business.



How the company started

Original owner John Ward became very interested in transportation by helping slaves escape to freedom in the 1840's through the Underground Railroad. The company first used horses and wagons to perform transportation jobs

What is so unique about E.E. Ward Moving and Storage Company is that they are not just the oldest, but also the oldest continually operating African American owned business in the United States. This means they have STAYED in business since their beginning in 1881.

Today, the company does residential moving, office and industrial moving, and corporate relocations. They are also an agent for North American Van Lines.

For more details about E.E. Ward Moving and Storage Company, visit www.eeward.com

http://www.blackbusiness.org/
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