When opportunity knocks, the opportunistic responds. W.Elmore Sherman, Sr., then in his early 20's, seized the day when the Cincinnati-based Hoffman Ahlers coppersmith firm decided to close it's Louisville operation where he worked as a bookkeeper. Elmore Sr. bought the business and renamed it Vendome Copper and Brass Works. The rest is history.

With each successive generation of Shermans - from son Elmore Jr. to the current management under grandsons Tom and Dick - Vendome has prospered. The company's success lies in it's unflagging efforts to carry out the founder's philosophy - "always deliver quality products, on time, at a reasonable price." Now, a fourth generation of Shermans is being trained to carry on the family tradition.

Hands-on experience prepared Tom and Dick for Vendome leadership. They worked in all facets of the company before assuming leadership roles in 1974. Under their direction, Vendome has enjoyed continued growth. Today, Vendome is recognized as a major supplier of vessels and processing equipment to the chemical, pharmaceutical, confectionery, food, dairy and other industries. The company has also retained its long-held position as the premier equipment supplier to the flagship industries-distilled spirits and brewing.

1900's - Vendome Copper & Brass Works founded by Elmore Sherman, Sr. Primary products are brewing and distilling equipment.

1920's - Prohibition begins. Vendome switches production from distilling equipment to other products.

1930's - Prohibition ends. Production of distilling equipment resumes. Business booms. Company survives famous Flood of 1937.

1940's - America enters World War II. Business grows with increased demand for distilled alcohol.

1950's - Elmore Sherman, Sr. retires. Elmore Sherman, Jr. becomes Vendome's second president. Vendome begins using stainless steel as a major new material for vessel fabrication while retaining copper and brass capabilities.

1960's - Vendome expands product line to chemical, pharmaceutical, food, dairy, confectionery and other industries.

1970's - Thomas Sherman becomes President and Richard J. Sherman becomes Executive Vice President. Demand for equipment to produce fermentation alcohol for fuel spurs growth. International markets develop.

1980's - Company moves to present location. Vendome produces largest multi-column distilling system for fuel alcohol, making it the leader in fermentation alcohol distillation equipment. Vendome makes largest skid-mounted ethanol plant. Skid systems shipped world-wide.

1990's - Continues expansion in growth industries requiring high quality, sanitary and special alloy products and process systems. Continues dedication to quality and service.