Established in 1899, B. J. Shetler began his young company with two teams of horses and wagons, which traveled as far as Princeton and Vincennes. The first truck was not acquired until 1916, which dates this image to probably the first decade of the twentieth century. A native of Illinois, Shetler arrived in Evansville by steamboat as a young man, working for a furniture manufacturer before opening his own business at First Avenue and Louisiana Street. When Shetler retired in 1945, he was replaced by his son, who affiliated Shetler Moving and Storage with Atlas Van Lines after he convinced the company to relocate to Evansville in the late 1950s.
FOOTNOTES: We want to thank Patricia Sides, Archivist of Willard Library for contributing this picture that shall increase people’s awareness and appreciation of Evansville’s rich history. If you have any historical pictures of Vanderburgh County or Evansville please contact please contact Patricia Sides, Archivist Willard Library at 812) 425-4309, ext. 114 or e-mail her at www.willard.lib.in.us.
