Central Ohio is home to many iconic brands and Fortune 500 companies, but what about small businesses?
One curious viewer wrote into Curious Cbus to ask, “What is the oldest family-owned business in Columbus?”
While researching the oldest businesses in central Ohio, we came across the story of E.E. Ward Moving & Storage.
Not only is it a Columbus business with over a century of history, but it also holds a unique record in American history. According to available research, it is the oldest continuously operating Black-owned business in the United States.
In 1881, John T. Ward and his son, William S. Ward, founded E.E. Ward Moving & Storage with just two horses and a wagon. Over 140 years later, the company stands as the oldest continuously operating Black-owned business in the United States—a testament to resilience, innovation, and dedication.
E.E. Ward’s legacy started even before its official founding. John T. Ward was a conductor on the Underground Railroad, using his wagon to transport enslaved people to freedom under the guise of hauling goods. That spirit of perseverance has remained at the heart of the company for generations.
"John T. Ward was more than a businessman—he was a leader and a visionary,” said Brian Brooks, co-owner of E.E. Ward. "His commitment to service shaped everything we do today.”
Like any long-standing business, E.E. Ward has had to adapt to changing times. From the days of horse-drawn wagons to modern moving trucks, the company has embraced new technology and industry advancements to stay ahead.
"When we first took over the company, it was still using typewriters,” Brooks recalled. "Now, we’ve integrated cloud-based technology and modern logistics systems to streamline operations.”
E.E. Ward has expanded its services far beyond Columbus. The company has expanded to North Carolina and continues to grow into new markets while maintaining its core values of integrity, service and excellence.
Throughout its history, E.E. Ward has been deeply connected to the Columbus community. The company has supported local initiatives and charities, including fundraisers for the East Side YMCA, now named the Eldon & Elsie Ward Family YMCA in honor of past company leadership.
Eldon Ward, who led the company for 50 years from 1945-1995, was involved in numerous community organizations, including the United Way Foundation and the Columbus Foundation.
"Eldon Ward made it his mission to give back,” Brooks said. "That’s a tradition we are proud to continue.”
With a history spanning more than 140 years, E.E. Ward has weathered economic downturns, social challenges and industry shifts—but one thing has remained constant: showing up every day.
"The Ward family had every reason not to show up—segregation, marches, economic struggles—but they did,” Brooks said. "And that’s the message I want people to take away from our story: entrepreneurship, resilience, and dedication. If you work at it every day, you can build something to be proud of.”
