News Summary
Cely Construction marks a significant 70th anniversary in the Upstate building industry, riding on a legacy of exceptional projects and community involvement. Founded in 1948, the family-run business has evolved from a lumber company into a leading construction firm, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Under the leadership of Sam Cely, the company has embraced modern technology and maintained strong family ties among its staff, ensuring a positive workplace that values community relationships. Cely Construction’s journey reflects dedication to excellence and a robust commitment to client satisfaction.
Greenville Celebrates 70 Years of Cely Construction’s Service
Greenville, SC – Cely Construction is commemorating its 70th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-standing presence in the building industry of the Upstate. Founded in 1948, the company has established a strong reputation for its diverse portfolio that includes projects ranging from medical facilities to over 550 church buildings.
The company’s origins trace back to the Cely family, specifically W.H. and H.W. Cely, who were successful merchants in antebellum Greenville. Their entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for future business ventures within the family. After serving in World War II, five of the Cely brothers decided to start a lumber company. They pooled resources, purchasing 3.29 acres of land on Washington Avenue in Greenville for $1,600, at a time when the Upstate was experiencing a significant building boom.
The demand for lumber and general contracting services surged during this time, enabling Cely Construction to launch and thrive. Over the years, the company has greatly diversified its project portfolio, contributing to prominent local developments including the Greenville Zoo, City Hall, and the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport.
Leadership and Family Involvement
Currently led by Sam Cely, the second generation of the family to head the company, Cely Construction remains a family-run business with deep roots in the community. Sam’s children and other family members are also actively involved in the company. Caroline Cely serves as the Chief Financial Officer, while William Cely works as a project coordinator and Sam Jenkins handles project management and estimation duties. This family-oriented approach has fostered a workplace culture that values strong familial ties while effectively managing business operations.
Workforce and Community Commitment
Cely Construction employs between 25 and 55 personnel throughout the year, depending on project demands. The company strategically focuses on projects within driving distance of Greenville, ensuring that employees can return home each night. This commitment reflects Cely Construction’s genuine care for both its employees and clients, fostering a positive working environment.
The company’s reputation is further validated by its impressive statistic that more than 50% of its business originates from repeat customers. This reflects Cely Construction’s dedication to quality service and client satisfaction, contributing to its ongoing success in the region.
Technological Advancements and Ongoing Development
Over the past decade, as the business transitioned to modern technology, Cely Construction moved from traditional manual bookkeeping to entirely digital operations. This shift has improved efficiency and accuracy, allowing the company to better serve its clients and manage projects effectively.
A Legacy of Excellence
Cely Construction’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as the company has received multiple awards recognizing its safety practices, construction quality, and community involvement. Their completed projects serve as a testament to their expertise and dedication to the building industry.
As Cely Construction embraces its 70-year legacy, it remains focused on continuing to provide high-quality construction services while nurturing its strong family bonds and community relationships. The company’s journey from a lumber startup to a prominent construction leader is a remarkable story of dedication, family values, and commitment to excellence in Greenville’s ever-evolving architectural landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Journal: Cely Construction History
- Greenville Online: Cely Family Legacy
- GSA Business: Acclaimed Greenville Restaurant Plans
- Greenville Journal: SCDOT Lane Closure
- Google Search: Cely Construction Greenville
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
