Cook Iron Store

History

Cook Iron Store, began in 1907 at Daniel L. Cook's blacksmith shop. Here Mr. Cook shod horses, replaced wagon wheel rims and repaired buggies on Andrews Street in downtown Rochester. In 1962 Mr. Richard Alheim purchased Cook Iron Store and expanded into several different markets including, bottled gas, builders' hardware and fireplace accessories. In 1964 Mr. Ahlheim, realizing the need for a General Manager, hired Mr. Ed Page. During this time Ed built the business substantially, and in the early 1980's the company focused on line expansions that catered to Construction and MRO products. In June of 2005 Ed Page passed away and was succeeded by Steve Wichtowski and Terry Page. In 2009 they acquired Flower City Wiper and in 2012 SafetyFirst adding shop rags and first aid to their categories In 2015 Terry retired. By the grace of God, Steve and the company endeavor to build on what these great men have built up since 1907.