When asked "Why do you believe your business has had staying power in your community?" Tim Huff, CFO and fourth generation family member of Building Center Inc. of Gloucester noted, "Our business is based on integrity, delivering high- quality products, and putting people first. By making sure our customers and associates are happy, we’ve been able to be the first stop for professional builders and homeowners alike. We like to think that after 121 years in business that every house in our community has a piece of the Building Center in it. That’s something we’re proud of.”
Building Center Inc. of Gloucester story begins with incredible roots. Charles "Cap" Heberle, born in late 1800s Virginia, was sent to Essex, Massachusetts as an indentured servant. After gaining freedom at 18, he moved to Gloucester, becoming a tugboat captain. In 1903, Cap's bravery in extinguishing a burning barge earned him $4,000, which he used to purchase the Gloucester Coal and Lumber Company, now known as the Building Center. The business passed to his son Charlie in the 1950s, who expanded it with innovative ideas like a drive-through lumberyard and credit-based sales. In the 1970s, Charlie opened a store in Essex on the same land where Cap once worked. Today, the Building Center is owned by Charlie's daughters, with the fourth generation involved, continuing the family's legacy on Cape Ann.
Building Center Inc. of Gloucester has been an LMC Dealer since 1949.
