Spring 2019 Hardlines Strategies

CUSTOMER PROFILE

Tried and True Texas Lumberyard Sticks with Philosophy of its Founder

That’s the beginning of the story of Teague Lumber in Fort Worth, Texas, an independent, family-run lumberyard in the thriving metropolitan area that was almost snuffed right out of the gate. Raymond J. (RJ) Teague started the company in 1944, but five years later, community, when it’s taken down by a natural disaster. S tarting a business is stressful in the best of times. So, imagine having built a business that you’re proud of, that’s accomplishing great things in your

the flood of 1949 put the store under 16 feet of water. His brother George was able to get a truck into the business and save its records and books, but the location was a complete loss. Fortunately, he was able to rebuild, and the company’s story now goes well beyond its difficult start. Today, it’s a thriving and much-sought-out business in Fort Worth that’s popular with pro and retail customers alike. An Optimistic Approach “RJ had a lot of faith in mankind, and that’s what carried him through when we went into work each morning,” says Jim Teague, former president of Teague Lumber and RJ’s son. “Most everything that didn’t wash away in the flood was ruined. But he persevered and came through. He was such an optimistic individual.”

The company is a true family business; other family members who currently work there include Don Stogsdill, who has 55 years at the company as an inside salesman; Paul Teague, current president and general manager and grandson of RJ; Randy Stogsdill, vice president of customer relations and also RJ’s grandson; and Stephanie Gilley, vice president of accounting and a cousin to Paul Teague. RJ Teague’s optimistic attitude continues to carry those family members running the business. Teague Lumber currently sits in its second location that was selected after the 1949 flood, on a corner lot of 1.5 acres of total lumberyard and about 8,000 square feet of interior retail space. The salesfloor has undergone multiple renovations, as new services and products have necessitated shifting offices and departments to new areas of the store.

Teague Lumber has become a fixture in the high-end building market of Fort Worth, Texas. The business still operates from the location it moved to after a flood in 1949, with multiple reconfigurations and remodels keeping the space modern and equipped to serve its customers.

32 Spring 2019 • Hardlines Strategies