HISTORY
1986 was the year the legacy began, only then, no one knew it.
When Don and Marie Hanes invested their savings into a Dunkin’ Doughnuts franchise, they put more than their money to work. It was truly a family affair. Brothers Brook, Nathan, and Duncan helped out before and after school and spent many summers getting to know not only the business of doughnut making, but also the “regulars.” These customers became a sort of second family to the Hanes’ and it’s the people they’ll never forget.
Rebranding a business from a well-known national franchise to a locally owned roaster might seem like quite the feat. But because of the loyalty of coffee drinkers in the community, it was pretty seamless. And it gave Brook and his team the freedom to develop new freshly roasted flavors, unique blends and single origin coffees for their customers.
It was a conference that Brook attended in 2002 that really set things into motion. He attended a class titled “Roasting in the Retail Environment” and it inspired him to purchase a roaster of his own. He was hooked!
That first American made roaster was named Elvis and was their “saving grace”. Then eventually followed George (after Brook’s Grandfather), and Lucy; all of which still have a place in Fort Findlay today. With these roasters Brook perfected his blends and techniques and expanded the offerings of the store.
Since 2003, Fort Findlay has been sourcing the finest beans from all the coffee regions of the world and roasting them in-house to create the quality of flavors and aromas worthy of the finest coffee houses. Unique blends, single origin beans, and expert level cupping produce many original coffees each year.
And don’t forget the doughnuts! The handmade, hand-cut doughnuts found in the shop are a coffee-dunkers dream! Where else can you find bacon maple fritters, fruit-filled treats, blueberry cake doughnuts, and classic glazed doughnuts fresh from the oven, still warm when you bite into them?
The family legacy continued as Brook’s kids and Don’s daughter in-laws all spent countless hours working together at the shop to help the business grow.
Today Fort Findlay continues to serve local customers every day, but that doesn’t mean their reach isn’t worldwide. Carefully choosing to purchase Fair Trade Certified products as well as supporting numerous charities and non-profit organizations to improve lives around the world, Fort Findlay truly cares about those they serve.
Stop into our building at 1016 Tiffin Ave in Findlay, Ohio or place your order for coffee and merchandise online.
The Fort Findlay legacy continues to stand the test of time.
