The Kohler Independence Series continues with a story of unwavering determination to succeed, as the Kohler Co. founder and his sons stay true to their shared vision in the face of intense obstacles and challengers.
The first time John Michael Kohler’s business burned to the ground was in 1880, just seven years after purchasing the iron-casting foundry in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. A minor setback for a bold entrepreneur like John Michael, he began rebuilding immediately. That type of determination ensured the business’ survival and success.
Despite economic panic nationwide, Kohler, Hayssen & Stehn Manufacturing Co. — as the business was named at the time — grew by leaps and bounds. John Michael and his business partners were innovators, diversifying their product offerings beyond the dying industry of farm implements. They seized opportunities in offering decorative cast-iron benches, flower vases, cemetery monuments, drinking fountains and, of course, that fabled first bathtub — an enameled water trough adorned with four legs.
Prior to 1883, farm equipment accounted for 80% of sales. Just five years later, bath fixtures and enamelware made up more than 70%. As momentum built through the end of the 19th century. it was time to build a bigger factory.
Sheboygan in 1899 was a bustling port city, which was good for businesses. But as ships rolled in and sailed out, so did the rough-and-tumble sailors. John Michael had a bold and empathetic vision of a better environment for his employees and their families, one that began to take shape when he purchased 21 acres of farmland just four miles west of Sheboygan. The village was called Riverside, but people at the time called the move “Kohler’s Folly.”
Prior to 1883, farm equipment accounted for 80% of sales. Just five years later, bath fixtures and enamelware made up more than 70%. As momentum built through the end of the 19th century. it was time to build a bigger factory.
Sheboygan in 1899 was a bustling port city, which was good for businesses. But as ships rolled in and sailed out, so did the rough-and-tumble sailors. John Michael had a bold and empathetic vision of a better environment for his employees and their families, one that began to take shape when he purchased 21 acres of farmland just four miles west of Sheboygan. The village was called Riverside, but people at the time called the move “Kohler’s Folly.”
Why build a business away from the lakeside port, utilities, city services, entertainment and a large pool of potential workers? John Michael saw what seldom could envision. To him, undeveloped meant unlimited potential.
The new foundry was complete in October 1900. A workforce of more than 250 began to populate the countryside village. After 27 years of leadership, John Michael’s vision for the company was coming to life. Unfortunately his own life ended less than a month after the new foundry opened. The responsibility fell to his three sons, Robert, Carl and Walter, all in their early to mid-20s, to keep the Kohler dream alive. Sadly, the next five years turned out to be a nightmare as fire gutted the newly built foundry, the remaining non-family business partners sold back their company shares in fear, and two of the three Kohler sons died unexpectedly.
Echoes of “I told you so” rang through town, as the company returned to Sheboygan to rent temporary manufacturing space after the fire. But the words fell on deaf ears.
Walter shared his father’s vision for Riverside and what it could become for the company, the workforce and their families. In the years to come, he would carry out the vision that became Kohler Co. and the Village of Kohler — presumably far beyond even his bold father’s wildest imagination.