Story By Mary Bailey
cal leaders gathered at Mueller in Albertville to celebrate the company being a part of the community for fifty years.
First established in 1975 the plant produces roughly 700 fire hydrants per day and ships them worldwide. Upon the plant producing its one millionth fire hydrant in 1990 the city of Albertville officially became known as the “Fire Hydrant Capital of the World” in 1991.
During the celebration on Friday, the plants five millionth fire hydrant was on display for all to see.
Mueller’s “5 million in 50 years” celebration included opening statements from plant manager Mike Lang, manufacturing manager Matthew Randall, President/CEO for MCDEC Matt Arnold, Chief Executive Officer Martie Edmunds Zakas and President and Chief Operating Officer Paul McAndrews.
Zakas spoke about the milestones and contributions the company has made during its five decades.
“We are honored to have reached such an important milestone for both Mueller Water Products and the Albertville community at large,” he said. “Albertville is an amazing area, and we are proud that over the past fifty years we have helped to play such an influential role in shaping the city into what it is today. The occasion marks not only an industrial milestone but also shines a light on the story of how Mueller and the city of Albertville have grown together, creating a unique identity and legacy that extends far beyond our facility walls. We thank both the city for its contributions to our success and our employees like Bob Landers who celebrates his golden anniversary with us on December 29th, for their dedication, talent and contributions. Over the past fifty years our employees have helped us to fulfill our purpose, which is connecting communities to water, life’s most essential resource, and with exceptional people, solutions and products. We’re looking forward to what the next 50 years will bring.”
Albertville Mayor Tracy Honea said Mueller is woven into the fabric of who they are as a city.
“I’m deeply grateful for their lasting contributions to our workforce, our economy and community spirit. Their fifty-year legacy proudly earning us the title of Fire Hydrant Capital of the World holds a special place in our hearts as Albertville citizens,” he said.
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing many employees and retirees who’ve dedicated their entire careers to Mueller, speaking volumes about their commitment to being a great place to work.
It was an honor to celebrate another incredible milestone alongside them. I look forward to many more years of their continued success.”
The City of Albertville also spoke highly of Mueller as they shared the following comments about the celebration.
“Congratulations to Mueller Company on celebrating fifty years and the production of your five millionth fire hydrant! Your work put us on the map as the Fire Hydrant Capital of the World and our citizens and visitors take great pride in spotting Albertville-made hydrants across the globe. We’re proud to have nearly thirty major industries within our city limits, each contributing to a strong local workforce and a wide range of internationally distributed goods and services produced right here in Albertville, Alabama. From your ‘hydrant city,’ we’re celebrating this incredible milestone with you. Cheers to five million in fifty years, Mueller! Wishing you continued success.”
After the program a reception lunch was catered by Local Joe’s in Albertville.
