Strong Company

All of my dads growing up years he was able to help his dad and his grandpa with Strong Company (a family owned construction company).  At the time it might have felt like a burden for him (what kid wants to spend their summers away from their friends working in the hot sun?) but I have had many opportunities to hear him talk about his times working for Strong Company and it sounds like the experiences he was able to have were anything but a burden.  When I was in Jr. High we went on a little family vacation to the middle of Utah to see some of the roads that my dad remembered Strong Company building.  It was so much fun to hear my dad reminisce of the time he spent there.  We were even able to find some cement pads that construction workers had layed for the steps for their little campers.  We also found some shot out cans that the boys had used for a shooting target.  I know that there are many stories that I have yet to hear.  But I sure do love sitting down with my dad and getting him going on his childhood memories.  I do not know of a harder working man than my dad.  I sure do love and appreciate him. 

Springville City has owned what remains of Strong Company for I don't know how long now.  Someone from the city was kind enough to let the Strong family have one last look at the remains of Strong Company before the land was sold.  This experience was a little hard on everyone I think.  But I could tell that it was especially hard on my dad.  Imagine a place that means so much to you and holds so many memories, not only of your entire growing up years, but memories of dear ones that have passed.

My dad explaining what certain parts were used for 

We were amazed at how many things have just been left in their place over the years.  These are gaskets used for fixing trucks (I think)

A sign that was kept where all the workers could see

A hard hat and hangers!! (this was the changing and washing room) So many things just left untouched!

Where the workers washed their hands

Nathan and I standing in my Grandpa's office

Left over screws and bolts in their stock room

Nathan holding our niece Ruthe in the stock room

(look how gigantic that is!!)

Rachel, Dad and I

Just a few of all of us that went (ignore the zombie sign, it seems some teenagers use Strong Company as a hang out)

Dad, Rachel, Ruthe, Nathan, me, Laneah, Gracelynn and Mom

Keys were still hanging in their places.  There were more but we took some of the ones that said Strong Co. on them for souvenirs 

The front door with my Grandpa's office above it

Afterwards we all went and saw Grandma Strong and shared and listened to memories.  I was very little when Strong Company closed so I don't have any to share.  Although, I do remember Grandpa taking me to work one day to drop by and grab something.  Only vaguely unfortunately. 

We also stopped by to see my Grandpa and Grandma Smith.  They also have some memories of the people that worked at Strong Company.  It was a day full of reminiscing.

I am so lucky to have the tight knit family that I do.  I love and appreciate all that my ancestors have done so that we can live the lives that we do today.