2016 marks the year Oak Harbor Freight Lines turns 100 years old and we plan to celebrate!

Oak Harbor can trace its roots back to Ben Koetje and Oak Harbor Transfer. He operated the company on the on Whidbey Island in Washington State from 1916 to 1936, when the Vander Pol Brother's bought the company to support their family. As a Dutch immigrant family, farming was their bread and butter, however when the US Government claimed their land to build the naval air station, the property they received in exchange was not going to support a growing, thriving family.

Since the purchase made by the Vander Pol brothers in 1936, the company has been transitioned to the second generation of Vander Pol's, Ed and David. As we move into our 100th year, they are preparing their sons to take over someday as the third generation of Vander Pol leaders.

"We are proud that, for 100 years, the company has not only supported the Vander Pol families, but also the families of its employees and customers alike," Says David Vander Pol. "and we are planning to celebrate the Lord's Blessings with our employees and customers throughout our five state footprint starting in May of 2016."

A company that lasts 100 years is a rare thing in this day of technological growth. When looking at the list of 488 public companies that are at least 100 years old, trucking is not even represented. Banking, petroleum, investment companies and even some retailers are well represented on the list but no trucking companies. Our longevity is not because of the long standing service we sell but simply because Oak Harbor is a family business supporting our families. That value system is what has kept us vibrant in our first century of service and will guide us in the next century as we continue to Bring Peace of Mind, to you and your customers, through Creative Solutions.

We hope to see you at one of our upcoming celebrations and in the marketplace in the coming year. Specifics dates and times will be announced as the events get closer.