History of Marvin

In 1939, George’s oldest son, Bill, joined the company and became Marvin Lumber and Cedar’s eighth employee. As the war was ending, Bill knew that without jobs, many of Warroad’s returning veterans would be forced to find work elsewhere. Bill saw window and door components as the logical, obvious opportunity to gainful employment and meaningful work in Warroad. George was not convinced.

One fateful day, when George was out of town, Bill saw his opportunity. Over George’s objections, Bill had invested in top-of-the-line woodworking equipment and intended to sneak it in while George was away. When a hole in the wall was required to fit the machinery in the building, Bill knew his purchase wouldn’t be a secret for long. But he had a vision.

Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit led the company to become Marvin Windows and Doors, producing made-to-order solutions while growing steadily over his years of leadership. Bill instilled business savvy in his children – Frank, Jake, George, Susan, and Bob – the third generation of Marvin company leaders, whose commitment grew the company to national acclaim and changed the industry.

Despite devastating fires, recessions, and countless other setbacks, Marvin has maintained its commitment to the community of Warroad for more than 110 years – along with expansions to North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia, Florida, Iowa, and Colorado.