The story of Lumber Boys began in 1948, when Bernard Garbus opened Gotham Lumber at our original location at Second Avenue & 38th Street in Manhattan. The business originally dealt exclusively with lumber and specific products for New York City’s carpenters and building trades, and over many years expanded into hardware, paint, and other building supplies carrying products such as Masonite, Gypsum Board, and Fiberglass Insulation.
Around 1972 Herbert Ross joined the company and became a partner with Mr. Garbus. He eventually gained full ownership of the business, becoming its sole proprietor in the early 1980’s. In 1992 ownership was passed on into the capable hands of Steven Ross, Herb’s son, after he retired. Lumber Boys has been owned and operated by the Ross family ever since. Today Steven and his son Robert are often seen working together behind the counter.
The original storefront at 698 Second Avenue was sold in 2013, the property transferred to a new owner, leaving the store without a renewed lease. A new location directly across the street was quickly found, and Lumber Boys was moved to its new location within a matter of just a few months. Working as a family-owned business now for three generations, Lumber Boys is proud of its history and constantly improving. We look forwards towards new successes and challenges in the future, and are always adapting and striving to fit our customer’s needs. Whether it means buying and selling well-made, quality products at the fairest prices, or just giving the best advice and customer service you can find anywhere in New York City, we continue to work as diligently as we do knowing that the best results and value for our customers is achieved when our combined experience and strong business values are aligned.