WHO WE ARE
In 1871 three brothers-in-law founded Blish-Mize after making the long journey from Chicago to Atchison, Kansas.
David Blish, Edward Mize, and Jack Silliman had big dreams of building a company to outfit wagon trains headed west from the Missouri River. Their hard work (and great luck) paid off, and in just a few short years, the company was distributing all types of goods to over 800 hardware stores, lumberyards, and general stores throughout the Midwest.
From axle grease, horseshoes, and firearms in the 1800’s, to distributing over 50,000 items today, Blish-Mize has delivered reliability and profitability to its customers for now over 150 years.
Here's to the next 150 years.
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Watch Video On YouTubeOUR MISSION STATEMENT
At Blish-Mize, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower independent hardware retailers with exceptional products, innovative solutions, and personalized service.
Rooted in over 150 years of family tradition, we are dedicated to our shareholders, valuing our employees, supporting our community, and driving success for our customers as the Midwest's leading hardware distributor.
FROM THE FOUNDERS WHO STARTED THE JOURNEY...
David Blish
Edward Mize
Jack Silliman
1871
THE JOURNEY WEST
Three brothers-in-law, David Blish, Edward Mize, and Jack Silliman, make the long journey from Chicago to Atchison, Kansas, with big dreams of outfitting wagon trains headed west from the Missouri River.
1870s
FRONTIER HARDWARE
Axle grease, horseshoes, and firearms: Blish-Mize outfits the pioneers heading west and the general stores that serve them.
1880s
800 STRONG
In just a few short years, the company is distributing all types of goods to over 800 hardware stores, lumberyards, and general stores throughout the Midwest.
1900s
BEST MADE STEEL
The first known Blish-Mize logo appears in the early 1900s, built around a promise of "Best Made Steel," the start of a brand that evolves with the company.
2021
150 YEARS
Five generations of family leadership later, Blish-Mize celebrates 150 years of Delivering More to independent retailers.
TODAY
STILL DELIVERING MORE
Over 50,000 items, a 500,000 square foot distribution center, and independent retailers served across 13 states. Still family-owned, still in Atchison.
