In 1946 when Thos. R. Birnie left the comfort and security of the corporate world he had no idea his name would become synonymous with Hamiton plumbers! With only a grade 8 education and a little experience gained during a brief stint at his father John's sewer business, it was a big risk. On faith, Thos. R. put aside a couple of week's wages and with his wife's blessing, struck out and started his own company - one that would employ many Hamilton plumbers in the years to come. Fortunately what Thos. R. lacked in money and education he replaced with earnest determination, a fierce work ethic and the honesty and integrity required for establishing a loyal clientele. His belief in God didn't hurt either! And Thos. R. walked the talk. His Christian values permeated all he did, resulting in a positive work culture for employees and customers alike. Eventually Thos. R. developed the business to include his two sons, Roy and Bob as Hamilton plumbers. And until the day he died, he was an active participant in the growth and development of Thos. R. Birnie & Sons Ltd.

Bob and Roy proudly continue their father's practice of commitment to quality service at a fair price. And the tradition of a business founded in family carried on when Tom, Roy, Jon, and Rob, Thos. R.'s grandsons, joined the ranks of Hamilton plumbers!

Of course there have been a few changes for the Hamilton plumbers as well. The plumbing and sewer services and products offered are now rich and extensive, meeting the growing needs of not only Hamilton, but the entire Golden Horseshoe and Tri-Cities area. A fleet of "Stinky" trucks and construction vehicles can be seen in Hamilton, Brantford, St. Catharine's, Niagara Falls, Oakville and Mississauga. The Hamilton plumbers team is larger, but still committed to a positive work environment founded on the values set by Thos. R.

Yes, back in 1946, with very little cash and a lot of determination, Thos. R took a huge risk. But with his wife's blessing and a lot of faith, he established and developed a family-owned and run company of Hamilton plumbers that extends across southern Ontario and continues to flourish and proudly serve our communities.