The business was established in 1921 by John R. Heitsman, Hugh Heitsman and Leroy Whittlesey.
Today, the business remains a family operation under the partnership of Don Whittlesey (Leroy’s son), Everett Hoskins (John Heitsman’s son-in-law) and Tim Hoskins (Everett’s son).
“I grew up in this business sweeping floors when I was in high school,” said Tim Hoskins, who became a partner with his father and Whittlesey in the late 1970s.
“It’s been rough at times, and there have been inquiries about buying the business,” Tim Hoskins said. “But it’s always been a goal to keep this a family business.”
The fourth generation of family members — Tim’s son John and nephew Patrick — currently work for the business too.
“This business has changed so much,” said Everett Hoskins, who is now 88 years old and still comes to work every day. “We worked hard at it and I’m glad to see my grand kids working to keep it going.”
Everett Hoskins said the company did all the sign work at LeSourdesville Lake Amusement Park, as well as for numerous factories in Hamilton that have now disappeared.
“We’re not millionaires, but we’ve done all right,” said the 83-year-old Whittlesey. “We’ve been together a long time and I’m pretty proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2852, or Skip.Weaver@coxinc.com.
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