In business for 112 years…and counting!

With a strong tradition and history, Lanham has grown and prospered in the face of many challenges since its beginnings in 1907. We are proud and excited to continue the legacy of the determined, people-centered leadership that has driven Lanham to succeed for more than a century. The people-centered focus keeps us going strong in today’s ever-changing environment of technology, product innovation, and a worldwide marketplace.

Lanham was founded by Charles Lanham as a material handling company.

WWII

The war brought change to many businesses. In the flooring industry, parquet flooring became less popular. The company remained in the material handling business for several years after the war, then decided to relocate south to be closer to lumber resources and a better labor market.

1953

A modern flooring manufacturing facility and sawmill was built in Greensburg, KY. The main office and distribution headquarters remained in Louisville, KY.

1963

Peter Lanham, Jr. and his son, Peter III, bought out Charles Lanham and continued to successfully operate the business until 1969 when wall-to-wall carpet gained marketshare and log supply became a challenge. This turn of events brought on a business decision to liquidate the factory and sawmill. Peter, Jr. took over the warehouse in Louisville. Peter III became General Manager at Greensburg for Jasper Corporation (who bought the property).

1980

Peter III returned to Louisville bought out his father and his father’s partner and continued to grow the business as a wholesale distributor of hardwood flooring and supplies.

1997

Steve and Anne McDonald purchased Lanham Hardwood Flooring, now with the corporate headquarters and main distribution center in Louisville, and a branch in Cincinnati, OH. They brought with them their sons-in-law, Blake Blythe and David Schmelzer to run the business.

2000

Under the leadership of Blake and David, Lanham opened another branch in Indianapolis.

2005

Growth necessitated the move from the location on Pinewood Road to a larger location on Bishop Lane, which afforded room to expand, as needed.

2014

The Indianapolis branch moved from Corporation Drive to a larger location on Ford Drive.

2015

Lanham expanded market presence by opening a new branch in Columbus, OH on Paragon Drive.

2016

The Cincinnati branch undergoes an expansion, doubling the size of the facility.

2019

Lanham launches a new website and implements a new company-wide software solution to manage inventory, accounting, and to elevate customer service at all branches.

Feature Photo: [A Lumberman’s Dream], Detroit Publishing Company photograph collection (Library of Congress); circa early 1900s