Paper mill is here to stay

Diane Hendricks, one of the richest women in the world, yet a truly humble and kind soul, was on-hand June 8, to celebrate the exchange of her ABC Supply company (Mulehide Mfg.) to Garland Industries (Cornell Manufacturing). To always remind her of the little town that is forever grateful to staying in operation, Hendricks was presented a photo taken by local artist Kathy Goltz, of northern lights framing the historic pulpwood stacker. Photo by Ginna Young

By Ginna Young

For more than 100 years, the paper mill in Cornell, has run almost non-stop, going by many names, as it changed hands. Most recently, the plant was known as Mulehide Mfg. for 22 years, providing employment for a large portion of the surrounding area.

As with many things, that era has come to a close, after ABC Supply sold the dry felt and facer company to Garland Industries. The move was celebrated with a big family/ company party June 8, at Mill Yard Park, where the new name – Cornell Manufacturing – was revealed.

Mulehide came into existence two decades ago, when it was all but closed down, with its purchase by Ken and Diane Hendricks, cofounders of ABC Supply. “It didn’t have much life left in it at the time,” admitted D. Hendricks. “Ken was a visionary that loved to help rebuild.”

D. Hendricks is pleased that the mill business has grown more every year, with great management through the various ups and downs.

“It made you stronger,” said D. Hendricks. “You’re a wonderful family.”

Dave Sokol, CEO of Garland, runs on the belief that manufacturers built this country and will continue to do so, which is why the paper mill was started so long ago.

“I can’t promise you a future success, that’s up to you,” he said. “But what I can promise you is a heartfelt commitment.”

Formerly with ABC, now with Garland, Brad Money will serve as president of the new acquisition, recognizing that the mill’s current and former associates, are what have kept the business running and viable for many years. Money says those associates are smart, hardworking, tough, dependable, resilient and caring.

“It’s these qualities that have differentiated us from our competitors, and is the reason we are standing and thriving today, in a very changing and competitive market,” said Money.

Although the paper mill had little strategic fit with ABC, who leans more toward construction supplies, the Hendricks came at the right time and built a lasting legacy.

“I believe, they saw a group of people in their home state of Wisconsin, that just needed a little help…and they would do extraordinary things,” said Money. “And they were right.”