Welcome to our yearlong series celebrating the entrepreneurs and small businesses that have shaped the nation’s economy for 250 years. You can view the entire series here.
For more than a century, Massachusetts-based Steele Canvas, which manufactures canvas products like laundry baskets and tote bags, has been a staple in American manufacturing, known for craftsmanship, resilience, and adaptability. Co-owner Paul Lordan reflected on how the company has weathered challenges, including wars, recessions, blizzards, and pandemics, while staying true to its core values.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecedented test, threatening Steele Canvas’ 100-year history. With many of the industries they served shutting down, retailers reducing inventory, and in-person shopping grinding to a halt, the business faced a sudden slowdown.
“With our shop slowing down, our team looking for work, and a nationwide mask shortage, we saw a need we could fill,” Lordan recalled.
Steele Canvas began manufacturing masks for the first time in its history, selling them directly on its website and supplying national retailers. By the end of the effort, the company produced over 200,000 masks — half of which were donated to first responders and essential workers — allowing the business to keep its lights on and pay employees.
As successful as any business is, there are always going to be bad days, and that’s when leadership and grit count.Paul Lordan, Co-owner of Steele Canvas
Reflecting on that challenging period, Lordan emphasizes the importance of staying grounded in the company’s identity.
“Following trends is not always a reliable way to grow your business. It makes sense to have awareness of where things are going, but it’s difficult to maintain success if you lose sight of your brand’s identity and the core reasons that originally lit your fire,” he said.
For Steele Canvas, that meant focusing on quality, customer service, and taking care of employees, ensuring that the people who craft the products feel like part of the family.
Looking back over a century of business, Lordan believes the company’s longevity comes down to perseverance, leadership, and trust.
“As successful as any business is, there are always going to be bad days, and that’s when leadership and grit count. What’s gotten us through the tough times has been the determination of our team to push through it, trust each other, and know better days are ahead,” explained Lordan.
Steele Canvas’ story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. By responding to crises with creativity, putting people first, and remaining true to its values, the company has not only survived but thrived for over 100 years, setting a model for enduring success in American manufacturing.
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