In the summer of 1954, the Shirk family began
to manufacture laminated wood rafters in the basement of their home in Myerstown,
Pennsylvania. In time, the family felt that
the business needed a name which was truly descriptive of
the quality product that they were producing. The name Rigidply
Rafters was established in 1954 by Chester F. Shirk, owner
and operator of this contracting and manufacturing company.
Today the Rigidply Rafters name continues as a testament to
the superior work produced by this family owned business.
Rigidply Rafters, Inc. currently employs over 200 people and
operates manufacturing facilities in Richland, PA and Oakland, MD. But before the
business was able to expand to its current production capabilities,
the Shirk family encountered a number of challenges.
The unexpected death of Chester F. Shirk in the business's
early years thrust the responsibility of running the rafter
operation into the hands of his son, 17 year old Arthur H.
Shirk. The reality of life that lay ahead was quickly coming
into focus. The responsibility to carry on the family business
was a great step, but with the help of God, loyal customers
and employees, Rigidply Rafters was able to continue and flourish.
In the years that followed, a number of changes and challenges
occurred. 1963 brought the introduction of a new product line,
wood roof trusses, and the first crane truck was put into operation
in 1964. The establishment of the business as a corporation
in 1971 was a significant step for the family. The business has expanded every year, with the latest major expansion being the new glue-laminating facility, constructed in late 2002.
"Our family business continues to grow with the support and
help of family and long-time dedicated employees. We need to face reality
and grasp opportunity as it arises before us. We hope to continue to be creative and innovative so that we may grow to meet
the needs of our customers. The difficult moments encountered through the years
were lessened by the loyalty and dedication of customers and employees, and for
this, Rigidply Rafters, Inc. expresses its deepest appreciation.
Everyone at Rigidply Rafters, Inc. is fully committed to serving our customers
and providing them with the finest products available. The excellence that we
strive for is to show our appreciation for our customers continued loyalty to
Rigidply Rafters. You deserve the best!
The owners of Rigidply Rafters, Inc. also believe that without the strength and
blessing of God, none of our services and accomplishments could have been possible.
We believe it is a combination of God's providence, and our determination to understand
His will and purpose for our lives that has allowed us, and will continue to allow us, to provide a service for our customers
and employees."
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Rigidply Rafters, Inc. is a family owned business that
has been in continuous operation since 1954. Rigidply Rafters
Inc. started manufacturing premium metal plate connected
wood trusses in 1963, and in 1971 at its Oakland, MD plant.
