This Season in History: Semi Tractor & Office Expansion

By: Mark Stutsman, COO
As I look back through old pictures and think of the past, I marvel at all the hard work and changes that have occurred in my lifetime, let alone, in 84 years. When Eldon started the company in 1934, one farmer supplied 9.8 people; today that number is 168. We have been blessed with advancements in technology, the development of more accurate and powerful machinery, and improvements to our facilities. Not to mention, all of our employees and customers that have made this journey possible.

For this season in history, a couple major events come to mind. In March of 1993, we expanded our corporate office by adding a second story. Additional office space meant we had room for new staff members to serve our growing customer base. This also meant that a new roof line would be established. As basic as this seems, this improvement sparked companywide excitement. This meant no more buckets sitting around on stormy days catching water that leaked through the roof. Ron Sweeting lead the construction of this project.

Of course, what would be an article on our history without mention of Eldon. This milestone Eldon would be proud to share today; the company’s first set of brand new trucks. In 1981 three new International 4070 Transtar II’s joined the Stutsman fleet.  Leroy Thomas, Eldon (Shorty) Slaughter and Milburn Nadley drove these new trucks.

John Mast, current Vice President of Stutsman Transportation, drove the first truck on the right. Although the same body style, it was a 1978 model that joined the fleet a few years prior.

As we reflect back on company and industry milestones, we are so grateful to be rooted in this industry. Stay tuned for the next edition of This Season in History!