Celebrating 100 Years of Doing Business in the Greater Lafayette Community
The early years at S. River Rd. & State St.
Henry Poor Lumber Company is celebrating 100 years in business in the Greater Lafayette community. Originally known as Ed Munger Lumber Co when it opened its doors in 1918, it sold lumber, window sashes, doors, blinds and interior finish products from their first location on Ferry Street in Lafayette, IN.
The business eventually moved to the intersection of State Street and South River Road in West Lafayette, IN where it became Munger and Poor Lumber Co., and eventually Henry Poor Lumber Company (HPLC).
Jim Andrew joined the business in 1972 and in 1983 he purchased Henry Poor Lumber from his close friend and mentor Frank Taylor, Henry Poor’s son-in-law.
65,000 sq. ft. lumber yard and showroom on Brady Lane
Expanded Opportunities Lead to New Businesses
In 1987 Andrew opened Home Works in Eastway Plaza on Sagamore Parkway. In 2001 the floor covering, cabinet and countertop showroom was moved to a larger location at Market Square. Home Works’ design center showcased their top cabinet, countertop and floor covering lines for remodelers and those building new homes.
Construction of the new South River Road and State Street interchange in 1996 forced HPLC to relocate to the corner of Concord Road and Brady Lane. Here they built a new 65,000 sq. ft. facility with a 15,000 sq. ft. building material showroom.
On display are fully functioning doors, windows, cabinets, countertops, roofing, siding and fireplaces.
Flooring Express is Lafayette’s largest in-stock floor covering showroom.
Henry Poor Lumber opened Flooring Express in November 2011. With over 30,000 square feet, Flooring Express is Lafayette’s largest in-stock floor covering showroom for carpet, hardwood, ceramic and laminate flooring.
Today HPLC has expanded to include Henry Poor Lumber, Flooring Express, HP Manufacturing and HP Wood Packaging.
An Integral Part of the Community
Henry Poor Lumber has been an integral part of the Greater Lafayette community for the past 100 years. Over the years it has supported many community groups including the YMCA, Junior Achievement, the Cancer Walk, Food Finders, Sigma Chi Fraternity, Purdue and many other organizations.
Jay, Jim and Tom Andrew
HPLC’s CEO Jim Andrew remarked, “100 years is a long time. I’m very proud that this business has contributed to our community for so many years. I am grateful for our employees, our customers, our many friends in the community, and especially my family for all they have done to make this business a success. We look forward to the next 100 years.”
