John Boos & Co. boasts a rich and storied history, dating back to 1887 in Effingham, Illinois. What began as a local blacksmith's invention—a sycamore block designed to absorb the shock from a blacksmith's hammer—quickly evolved. The sturdy, enduring qualities of these original "butcher blocks" soon found their true calling in meat markets and restaurants, setting the standard for professional food preparation surfaces. Over more than 135 years, John Boos & Co. has grown from a humble local enterprise into a globally recognized leader in gourmet furnishings, cherished by chefs and home cooks alike for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The heart of John Boos & Co.'s operations remains firmly planted in Effingham, Illinois. It is within their U.S. facilities that master woodworkers meticulously craft each piece, from their iconic butcher blocks to cutting boards, kitchen islands, and stainless steel worktables. They utilize sustainably harvested, premium North American hardwoods, overseeing every step of the manufacturing process, from lumber selection and milling to gluing, sanding, and finishing. This hands-on, detail-oriented approach in their Illinois workshops ensures the legendary durability and beauty that define the John Boos & Co. name.
Source: https://www.johnboos.com/about