Monarch Hydraulics, a privately held manufacturer of hydraulic systems and components, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2006.
The company was founded in 1856, just 19 years after Michigan attained statehood, by Joseph Jackoboice, who began a precision sawmill and woodworking machinery business.
Today, Monarch is the oldest family-owned business in Michigan, and the fourth and fifth generation of family members is helping to oversee the company. Monarch's AC power units, DC power units, fluid power packs, hydraulic components and systems, SAE pumps, and DynaLift work stations can be found on products from work trucks to ice cream machines.
With its national headquarters in Grand Rapids MI, Monarch produces in facilities in Newaygo and Grand Rapids. The company also operates Monarch Hydraulics in China and distributes in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Monarch has been recognized in the past as Family Owned Business of the Year by the Family Owned Business Council of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. Its leadership team helped found the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center's West Michigan Council.