It was the year when the Statue of Liberty was dedicated, Coca-Cola syrup was invented, the first gasoline-driven car was patented, Grover Cleveland became the only president ever to get married in office, and a brand-new engineering marvel known as the Brooklyn Bridge was still generating buzz.
But 1886 also bears a particular distinction for one New York family: it was the year when a small masonry and concrete company was founded in Manhattan by an Irish immigrant named John Gallin.
Today, under the leadership of the fourth generation of the founder's direct descendants, John Gallin & Son celebrates its 125th anniversary. It is believed to be New York City's oldest family-run construction firm.
"We've endured six wars, the Great Depression, and an uncountable number of economic cycles, thanks to the lasting values that my great-grandfather John Gallin imparted to this company so long ago, and the extraordinary loyalty that our clients have demonstrated," said president Mark Varian, who notes that some of the firm's current customers extend back more than 30 years.
"A vital factor in our longevity is the recognition we've won as a family-run company that combines commitment to old-fashioned values and standards of service with the depth and skills to meet the new challenges of an evolving construction environment," said Varian, who is himself the son of a Gallin. "To this day, we stand by our promise that there's always a Gallin on your job."

The firm's specialty is commercial interiors, and it has never strayed from that, according to Varian.

The firm has completed projects for Ann Taylor, The Research Foundation of CUNY, Tishman Speyer Properties, The Durst Organization, Vornado Realty Trust and Wells Fargo. Tags: