Welcome to our year‑long series celebrating the entrepreneurs and small businesses that have shaped the nation’s economy for 250 years. You can view the entire series here.
Based in Danvers, Massachusetts, Townsend has helped homeowners and businesses stay comfortable year-round for nearly a century. What began as a heating oil delivery company has evolved into a full-service home comfort business, offering propane, HVAC, plumbing, electrical services, generators, fuel delivery, and energy solutions to customers throughout Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire.
According to President Brookes Townsend, the company's culture was shaped by the perseverance of its earliest generations, who built the business during some of the nation's most difficult times.
"I can only imagine the challenge of starting a company right after the Great Depression, building a business with family members, and then having all the sons go off to World War II. Through that, the early generations set the tone for an incredible work ethic and truly embodied the core values and 'The Townsend Way' that define how we operate today,” said Townsend.
Build your business around values early. For us, integrity, commitment, legacy, and excellence aren't just words — they guide decisions, hiring, and how we serve customers every day.Brookes Townsend, President of Townsend
Those values continue to guide the company as it expands its services while remaining focused on customers and employees. Brookes Townsend believes that entrepreneurs should establish a strong foundation from the very beginning and never lose sight of the people they serve.
"Build your business around values early. For us, integrity, commitment, legacy, and excellence aren't just words — they guide decisions, hiring, and how we serve customers every day,” explained Townsend.
He also encourages business owners to stay close to their customers, invest in their teams, and embrace change as their organizations grow, noting that leadership and systems must evolve alongside the business.
After nearly a century in business, Townsend’s greatest lesson is that lasting success comes from balancing growth with discipline while protecting the reputation built over generations.
"Sustainable success comes from balancing growth with discipline while staying true to your values and reputation,” Townsend added.
That philosophy has helped the family business continue to grow while remaining grounded in what the company calls "The Townsend Way"— doing what you say you're going to do, taking care of people, and building something that lasts.
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