As I reflect on this incredible milestone, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. One hundred years. A century of dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to our values and community. It’s not just a number; it’s a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and spirit that have carried my family and our clients through every challenge and triumph.
My grandfather, Richard A. Graf, founded what is now Graf Insurance. During the early 1920s, he would occasionally travel with his mother on the train from Brooklyn to Huntington to set up shop on Sundays with her boss, Mr. Koster, selling lots. The growing town grew on him.
From 1920 to 1930, Huntington’s population grew 84% from 13,893 to 25,582. In addition to more people, there were several significant building projects, including the Huntington Theatre and Huntington Office Building in 1927, the Huntington Mortgage Building in 1928, and the Hotel Huntington in 1929.
In 1924, my grandfather gave up his bank job and moved to Huntington, joining forces with Mr. Koster to set up the insurance and real estate business. This laid the foundation for what would become a family legacy.
Giving Back to the Community
The most significant element of our family legacy is service—both military service and community service. My grandparents proudly served in WWII (which I’ll discuss in July when we remember the 1940s) and lost friends to the war. Remembering those who lost their lives in service is a family tradition, as is supporting all veterans.
This month, I am proud to have donated to and participated in the United Veterans Beacon House Golf Tournament on May 20, 2024. It was a terrific event and fundraiser. United Veterans Beacon House is a fantastic organization that has been helping veterans in our community for 30 years and I am so happy to help support them. Last year’s event raised over $100,000, and they expect to see similar results this year.
Huntington Honors and Remembers
As a business and residential member of this community, one of my greatest childhood memories is the Memorial Day Parade. I have witnessed countless veterans, politicians, adults, and children proudly march down Huntington’s streets—a meaningful tradition that brings the community together.
This year’s American Legion Huntington Post 360 Memorial Day Parade steps off from the Huntington Post Office at Noon on Monday, May 27th. The Huntington Militia will march in the parade and then salute those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the Revolutionary War at the historic burial ground next to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building.
Then and Now
Over the years, each Graf generation has contributed its unique touch, shaping and growing the business while staying true to our core principles. Today, Huntington’s population is 200,967, and I’m proud to say that Graf Insurance is still a trusted business staple in the community. As the CEO of this cherished family-owned enterprise, I am honored to remember our humble beginnings and continue growing the business in the same building where it was founded by my grandfather one hundred years ago.
