Old Dominion is a true American success story. Earl and Lillian Congdon founded OD in 1934 with a single truck. These humble beginnings firmly rooted OD’s strong family culture from which would ultimately grow the nation’s 3rd largest LTL carrier. OD’s continued growth provides uncommon opportunity and security for thousands of employees, who are writing the next chapter of OD’s story.
Earl and Lillian Congdon founded Old Dominion Freight Line with a single truck running between Richmond, VA and Norfolk, VA.
Congress regulates the trucking industry. OD receives an operating certificate from the Interstate Commerce Commission to transport goods only between Richmond and Norfolk, Virginia.
OD leads the way as WW II creates a boom in traffic between Richmond and Norfolk. OD has grown to employ 45 people at three service centers. OD builds its first new service center in Norfolk, VA in 1948.
Founder Earl Congdon, Sr. dies. The company is incorporated and Lillian Congdon assumes the presidency. She is joined by sons Earl, Jr. and Jack. In 1957, OD extends operations to most major markets in North Carolina and southern Virginia with the acquisition of Bottoms-Fiske Truck Line. In 1962, OD moves its corporate offices to High Point and merges with Bottoms-Fiske. Earl Congdon, Jr. assumes the presidency. Lillian Congdon becomes the Chairman of the Board.
OD moves its headquarters to High Point, NC. as a result of the merger with Bottoms-Fiske Truck Line. Earl Congdon, Jr. becomes President and acquires Barnes Truck Line, Nilson Motor Express, and White Transport.
OD acquires Star Transport which vaults the company into the Northeast. Lillian retires and John Congdon becomes Chairman. Earl, Jr. remains president and continues driving unprecedented growth.
Congress partially deregulates the motor carriers, granting nationwide operating authority to all applicants. OD extends services to Florida, Tennessee, California, Dallas and Chicago.
OD goes public in 1991. OD focuses on LTL, building density and improved profitability using a super-regional operating model. Founder Lillian Congdon Crowder passes away. David Congdon is named President and CEO.
OD moves to its current headquarters in Thomasville, NC. The new facility allows OD to expand its computer network and implement improved technology. OD continues to grow internationally.
OD experienced unprecedented growth, from stock price to the total number of employees. During this period, OD drove continuous increases in revenue and tonnage, successfully expanding its network and reducing operating costs.
