Statistics reveal that only about 1-1/2 % of small businesses survive to celebrate a 100th anniversary. That rare legacy represents hard work, vision, luck, great employees, vendors & loyal customers. I took over as President when my father Abe died in 1976. I had the honor to work with & learn from him & my Grandfather ( our founder) Louis. What a great ride it’s been. Please call anytime & ask for me personally if I can help with a project or question.
Bob Margolin (President)
Robert Spector author of the best selling THE NORDSTROM WAY and several other business books tells our story in 2 chapters of THE MOM & POP STORE. We cherish our legacy in this book about adaptation & survival in multigenerational family owned businesses.
We have always tried to contribute & give back to our community. We are proud to have an Honorary street sign presented by the City of Chicago to commemorate that. The signs…Miller Lumber av. are installed on Division st. between Ashland & Damen.
In 2005 Miller Lumber opened THE SPLAT FLATS … 28 affordable, safe artist studios in empty space above the Lumberyard. The young artists held shows in their studios & the Lumberyard. They developed a small close knit community.
1935 calendars found behind a wall during remodeling
Wet paint 40’s posters
This white board welcome to our original location was created in 1988 by then 8 year old Adam Margolin. He created our “We’re Lumber 1” slogan as well. It hung in the entrance for almost 25 years. It represents the desire to contribute by family members and loyal employees to a 100 year+ enterprise that they all took pride in.
