About

About Swope Supply Company

Early in 1961, Sam Swope saw the need for an industrial supply house in Chattanooga to supply expendable items to the area's construction, mining, and manufacturing industries. On July 1, 1961, after leaving his position in heavy equipment sales, he opened the doors for business at Swope Supply Company. As a one-man business, the operation began in Mr. Swope's home in Red Bank. An automobile crane mounted on his white El Camino represented his first product and became his "trademark" as he traveled the tri-state area in his unique and memorable vehicle.

Growth was steady, and Mr. Swope leased 1200 square feet of warehouse space on W. 33rd St in Alton Park. This location housed the company's first employees, small equipment, wire rope, and parts inventory. In only 6 years, the company outgrew the space; in 1967, a warehouse and office building were purchased. This location at 3000 Alton Park Boulevard is still where operations are handled today.

The original business model, product lines, and even business names have adapted to accommodate the changing economic climate. Swope Supply has, from the start, been truly a family endeavor. Sam's wife, Margaret, was instrumental in the bookkeeping side of the firm for many years. At one point, all three of the Swope's children worked for the company.

Today, Sam's son and daughter, Terry Swope and Patricia Baker, continue their father's legacy of integrity and outstanding customer service in Chattanooga and surrounding areas. They work side-by-side in a fast-paced environment that includes departments for large and small equipment rentals and custom hydraulic and fluid lines.