On Friday, September 13, 2024, Knapp Supply of Muncie, Indiana proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a momentous occasion in the company’s long and storied history. Kicking off the celebration, the Muncie Chamber of Commerce celebrated with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. From noon to 8 p.m., the event brought together employees, customers, vendors and community members at Knapp's headquarters in Muncie for a day filled with camaraderie, reflection and festivity.
A Legacy Born from Resilience
The origins of Knapp Supply are rooted in both determination and a deep commitment to the community. In 1874, Captain Alexander Knapp, wounded after serving in the Civil War at the Battle of Chickamauga, returned home with a new mission—to help modernize his community. Realizing the importance of indoor plumbing and improved sanitation, Captain Knapp took the bold step of starting a business that would become one of the region's foremost suppliers of plumbing products. With an investment of $25,000, Knapp Supply was born, initially supplying the area with materials that would bring indoor plumbing to homes and businesses alike. This vision set the foundation for the company’s long-lasting success.
A Journey Through Time
Knapp Supply's dedication to quality and service has allowed it to thrive through the years. In 1926, under the leadership of George Huesman, the company moved to Muncie, where it continues to be a vital part of the local economy. Despite changing hands six times throughout its history, Knapp Supply has never wavered from its core principles: supporting local businesses, providing unmatched customer service and honoring its traditions.
Today, Knapp is proud to have a legacy of multi-generational employees, a testament to its commitment to both its workforce and the community. Among them is Louis Feick, who began his career with Knapp in the mid-70s. His son, Jim Feick, followed in the early 90s, and now Jim’s son, Mitch Feick, continues this family tradition, helping lead the company. This dedication spans decades and generations, bringing pride to Knapp as it grows in the future.
Bub Lowe, shipping department supervisor & warehouse manager, whose father also worked at Knapp, recalls fond memories of riding along with his father on deliveries. His father would often tell him, "Knapp is strong at customer service and knowledge of the materials. We carry a wide variety of quality products that help our customers get just about any job done that they have regarding plumbing, water filtration, remodeling, HVAC and irrigation."
Jim Feick believes strongly in empowering his employees to make decisions daily. He emphasizes the company’s commitment to customer service and competitiveness, saying, "We don't need a board meeting to make a decision. If a customer is in need when the company is not open on a Saturday, we are going to come in and get it for them. And if a customer tells us they found a competitor with a better price, we'll do everything we can to match or beat that price on the spot."
Building strong relationships with customers has been key to Knapp Supply's ability to adapt and evolve. Mitch Feick recalls a valuable lesson he learned at a young age from his father: "You have to be honest with your customers so that they trust in the advice and products you offer them. Also, when a problem arises, you need to be able to make moves quickly to benefit our customers and their needs." This personalized approach has helped Knapp Supply stand out from competitors, especially as many customers initially turn to big-box stores for supplies only to find they weren’t given sound advice. As a result, they often make multiple trips with products that don’t fit, won’t work or didn’t solve their problem.
Meanwhile, David Stanley, director of sales & marketing, highlights the personal connection Knapp Supply builds with its customers. "Many times, the calls aren't about needing product, sometimes, it's advice our customers need—they want to talk through a manual or ask our recommendations, and we are happy to talk with them," Stanley explains.
Despite only having 36 employees, Knapp boasts an incredible 750 combined years of experience, a testament to the knowledge and expertise available to help customers. This depth of experience ensures that every customer interaction is backed by industry knowledge and a commitment to top-tier service.
2021 Showroom Transformation
In 2021, Knapp Supply unveiled an updated 3,600-square-foot showroom designed to inspire customers whether they’re planning a major renovation or a small upgrade. The space features working faucets, tankless water heaters, bidets, showerheads, functional freestanding tubs, toilet configurations and more. Customers can explore a variety of waste food disposals, vanities, cabinetry and countertop styles, offering hands-on experiences with natural materials, handles and modern innovations.
This updated showroom provides a unique opportunity for customers to visualize their home improvement projects, offering everything from small touches to large-scale overhauls.
Celebrating a Milestone
The anniversary celebration embodied Knapp Supply’s dual focus on honoring the past while looking toward the future. Amazing Joe's catered lunch and dinner, providing attendees with mouthwatering meals throughout the day. In the afternoon, the Muncie Central High School Marching Band
delighted the crowd with a rousing performance, filling the air with energy and excitement. The festivities continued into the evening with entertainment provided by LPE Entertainment from Indianapolis.
Music and dancing carried the celebration into the night, with attendees of all ages joining in the fun, creating lasting memories on the dance floor.
A Showcase of Industry Partners
More than 30 vendors from across the United States were present, displaying their latest products and innovations. This diverse gathering of suppliers represented the broad network that Knapp Supply has cultivated over the years. The event offered attendees a unique opportunity to connect with vendors and gain valuable insights into the future of the plumbing, HVAC and contractor supply industries.
Dedicated Delivery Service
Knapp Supply goes beyond just offering top-quality products—they also provide a convenient delivery service for homeowners, contractors and industry professionals alike. For only $5 on weekdays, customers can have their orders delivered directly to their door, and if the order is placed before 7:30 a.m., same-day delivery is often available. This service underscores Knapp's commitment to making their customers' projects as seamless and stress-free as possible.
A Future Built on Tradition
As Knapp Supply celebrates 150 years, its future looks as bright as its past. Captain Alexander Knapp’s legacy of service, resilience and innovation continues to thrive under the company’s leadership, which remains deeply committed to its core values of local pride, customer service and quality products.
The 150th-anniversary celebration was not only a time to reflect on the company’s incredible journey but also a moment to look forward to the next chapter in its story. Here’s to another 150 years of success and growth.
This article was authored by Cindy Thomas
For more information, visit knappsupply.com.