Learn the History of Arnold Lumber & Ready-Mixed Concrete
The Early Years
In May 1951, Robert L. Arnold graduated from Clarkson College with a degree in mechanical engineering. His mother then suggested that he go see her employer, George A. Thomas, about a job. He got his first lessons in the feed business before Mr. Thomas decided to sell the company to Robert’s family. The Arnolds went into business as Malone Feed & Farm Supply Inc. Some years after, the company changed direction, discontinuing the marketing of farm machinery. Robert’s father, Thomas Arnold, was a local contractor and he decided to expand the business into the sale of building materials.
The Growth of the Company
Robert's Sons
By the early 1980s, Robert’s sons were full-time employees and very active in the business. The company was flourishing, and Mr. Arnold wanted to continue its expansion. He decided to buy a concrete plant to produce Redi-Mix concrete. Robert passed away in May 1988, leaving his sons to carry on his legacy. The business continued to grow, and the brothers decided to implement their father’s ideas to renew and modernize the entire showroom.
Continued Improvement
The Arnolds
The brothers felt it was time for a change of direction, and, with the feed business waning, they decided to close it down. In July 1990, they renamed the company Malone Lumber and Ready-Mix Inc. (MLRM). In March 1998, an opportunity arose with the retirement of local fuel dealer Connors Oil. The brothers bought the business and renamed it Arnold Oil Inc. The acquisition, which included a gas station, supplemented the existing lumber and ready-mix operations. This allowed the brothers to provide Malone and the surrounding communities with heating oil, gas, diesel, and kerosene products and services for heating systems.
A New Era
The Remodel
In 2000, the retail store was completely remodeled, and a new structure was built in place of what used to be the heart and soul of Malone Feed & Farm Supply. The new store, which was over 8000 square feet, allowed customers to shop with ease in wide aisles and under improved lighting.
Dan and Tom Arnold branched out in July 2001. They purchased a neighboring business, Upstate Memorials, and renamed it to Arnold Monuments Inc.
In June 2009, the brothers established Arnold Pre-Cast Inc. This allowed the company to provide products and services that both dovetail and integrate with existing ready-mix and monument operations. At the same time, it allowed for the expansion of the lines of the building supply/materials business.
Our Company Today
The Arnolds
Dan Arnold retired and his brother, Tom, bought his part of the business in 2017. Tom’s son, Luke, also joined the company to follow in his father’s footsteps. Joshua, Tom’s other son, is currently serving the country in the U.S. Army. Tom hopes that when Joshua returns home, he will decide to join the family business as well. Hannah, Tom’s daughter, is in school, furthering her education in the marketing and advertising field. Her knowledge could be a great asset to the company in the future. We would like to thank all those who have supported us since 1951. To our future customers, we would like to welcome you to Arnold Lumber & Concrete family!
Awards & Recognition
We are a member of the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association, and American Rental Association.
n 2017, we were given the Business of the Year Award by the Malone Chamber of Commerce.
