“I want to thank the community for always supporting us above all else. I feel we’ve lasted so long by giving a good, honest deal, and continuing to care for customers after the sale,” said owner Don Stratton Jr. during a recognition get together held Jan. 27 at the long-standing dealership, 16050 state Route 14, near the intersection with route 534.

Don believes that the figure of 50 years is derived from the change of the dealership’s name to Stratton Chevrolet in the early 1950s, which would have changed their dealership number in internal records. However, Stratton had been family-owned and operating in Beloit since 1928, founded by Don’s great grandfather John Williams, and his grandfather, Lincoln Larue Stratton, under the name William’s and Son. It was later renamed to Williams and Stratton, before the final change in the 1950s.

When Stratton first opened in 1928, the company sold Atlantic and Sohio gasoline, and even had six cabins that patrons could rent. These cabins were certainly a benefit to customers with the business being located roughly halfway between Pittsburgh and Cleveland at a time when state Route 14 was the only truly viable route between the two major cities.

While Don doubts if his great-grandfather and grandfather ever imagined the business they started together would continue to be so successful –and still completely family-owned nearly 100 years later –he takes great pride in carrying on the family business and legacy.

Owner Don Stratton Jr. was presented with a beautiful award from hevrolet ommemorating the dealership’s 50th year with the company. (Photo by Morgan Ahart)

“I consider it a great honor to be in this position,” he said.

This family legacy, and the sense of pride the Stratton family take in it, is apparent as Don himself is the fourth generation of the family to steward the business, having succeeded his father Don Stratton Senior. Don’s son Dirk also works at the dealership as the internet sales manager, and his wife, Teresa, works as the dealership’s office manager.

Don credits the dealership’s longevity and success to their dedication to taking care of customers, and providing the best possible deal, which he feels keeps customers loyal. That loyalty can certainly be seen in effect, as Don noted the dealership depends on their many repeat customers.

“We truly appreciate the community for all the support they show us, and have always showed us. We wouldn’t be where we are today without them,” said Don.

When first opened in 1928, under the name William’s and Son, in addition to selling vehicles and performing repairs, Stratton sold Sohio and Atlantic Gasoline to customers on busy state Route 14. This photo is from the late 1920s. (Photo courtesy of the Stratton family)

An antique aerial photo taken sometime in the 1930s shows the early days of Stratton Chevrolet, not long after it first opened in 1928. Nearly 100 years later Stratton Chevrolet remains a valued part of the Beloit community, under the stewardship of the fourth generation of the Stratton Family Don Stratton Jr. (Photo courtesy of the Stratton family)

Stratton Chevrolet has always been a family business. The Stratton family have recently welcomed a sixth generation into the family. Pictured from left are owner Don Stratton Jr., seven-week-old Drake Stratton, and his father, Internet Sales Manager Dirk Stratton. (Photo by Morgan Ahart)

Shown is an image from the 50th recognition event. (Photo by Morgan Arhart)