The remarkable journey of 100-year-old companies.
It’s not every day that a company can celebrate its centennial, especially one founded in 1926. The occasion is more than a milestone; it is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to progress. Over the course of a century, Jones & Henry and other firms that began in 1926 have had to navigate a complex landscape of economic challenges and transformative changes. Those who survived have emerged stronger with each challenge faced.
A Journey Through Turbulent Times
The histories of firms reaching the 100-year mark in 2026 are intertwined with some of the most pivotal events in modern history. Imagine starting a business, only to find yourself facing the harrowing challenges of the Great Depression just a few years later. The economic struggles of the 1930s led to a near-total drying up of funding for various projects. Yet, instead of folding under pressure, these innovative companies adapted brilliantly. They navigated the complexities of federal initiatives and secured crucial contracts with agencies involved in economic recovery, ultimately contributing significantly to the nation’s infrastructure development.
Jump ahead to World War II, where these young firms had to pivot once more as critical materials became scarce due to wartime rationing. As wartime rationing created shortages of essential resources, they quickly shifted focus to support military initiatives and post-war development, showcasing their ability to innovate under challenging circumstances.
Thriving Amidst Regulatory Changes
The 1970s ushered in a new era of challenges, including significant environmental regulations like the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. While these laws created a demand for services in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, they also required substantial investment in training and technical expertise. Many of the 1926-founded companies embraced the challenge, fostering a culture of continuous learning and thriving in an environment where others may have faltered.
Navigating the era of stagflation in the late 1970s and early 1980s was no easy task. High inflation and soaring interest rates delayed or ended many projects. However, these resilient firms transitioned to low-cost maintenance contracts and devised ingenious solutions, allowing them to weather economic storms and emerge successfully.
Adapting to the Modern Era
The late 20th and early 21st centuries introduced new challenges, including the 2008 Financial Crisis and pressures stemming from globalization, digitalization, and climate change. The emergence of Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) transformed the project funding landscape, requiring firms to become more agile and innovative. The transition from manual drafting to Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and advanced modeling techniques not only modernized engineering practices but also set new industry standards.
In the 2020s, companies faced global upheaval brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, their stories of resilience continued to inspire. By embracing advanced technologies and responding to emerging industry needs, they adapted to the evolving demands of their fields in a changing world.
A Legacy of Innovation and Commitment
The stories of these companies are more than just tales of survival; they represent the essence of American ingenuity and determination. Each story is characterized not by stagnation but by a continuous evolution driven by shifting economic forces and technological advancements. From humble beginnings in the early 20th century to confronting today’s challenges, these firms represent a relentless pursuit of excellence and a steadfast commitment to serving their communities.
As Jones & Henry Engineers proudly commemorates its incredible 100th anniversary, we are reminded of the extraordinary power of adaptability, innovation, and dedication. The resilience demonstrated by companies that survived adversity serves as an inspiring beacon for future generations of entrepreneurs. Here’s to 100 years of overcoming challenges and a future brimming with opportunities.
