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Businesses of Today
For this section of the book we asked business
owners to write a brief history of their business and
submit it for publication. We are grateful to those
who responded. We have attempted to recognize all
current Stratford businesses and we apologize for
any oversights.
A & B Process
Systems Corporation
A & B Process Systems was started in 1973 by A.J. and
William Hilgemann. The company fabricates and installs
stainless steel equipment for the dairy, food, pharmaceutical
and other processing industries. A & B has designed process-
ing equipment for major food processers throughout the
nation.
They are one of Stratford's largest employers with ap-
proximately 100 employees.
Access Mobility
Access Mobility is a Stratford based business specializ-
ing in accessibility products and adaptive driving equipment
for seniors and the physically challenged in Central and
Northern Wisconsin. Accessibility solutions to help people
get where they want to go and overcome architectural barriers
in their homes and communities include: stairway lifts, porch
lifts, ramps, residential and commercial lifts, residential
elevators and bathtub lifts. Owner Angela Williams says
"Our consultants are informed about accessibility issues and
we believe that architectural barriers can be overcome with
the right equipment and a "Can Do" attitude."
Our Adaptive Driving Division offers safe and reliable
equipment for vehicle access and adaptive driving including
wheelchair and scooter lifts, hand controls, power seating,
wheelchair restraint systems, and custom interiors. Access
Mobility is a member of the National Mobility Equipment
Dealers Association (NMEDA) and is working with this
nationwide organization of manufacturers and dealers in
setting industry standards for the safe and dependable trans-
portation of the physically challenged. Access Mobility also
handles three wheel power scooters, a leading line of Swedish
rehab products and power lift chairs; products which enhance 222
the quality of life for those with limited mobility. Access
Mobility can be reached locally by calling 687-4404. Those
outside the local dialing area can call toll free: 1-800-233-
1235.
Access Mobility looks forward to being an integral part
of the Stratford community. We appreciate the support we
have received and look forward to working with the commu-
nity to make Stratford an even better place to live in the years
ahead. We are committed to serving the accessibility needs of
communities, businesses, schools, churches, families and
individuals in Central and Northern Wisconsin and here in
Stratford. We salute you, Stratford and thank you for the
opportunity to be part of this fine village.
Becher Feed
& Farm Supply
During the summer of 1952 Aloysius Becher and his
brother, Philip, now of Winona, MN, started remodeling an
old barn in which Al had housed layer chickens. The land had
been purchased by Edward Becher, their father, around 1937
from Herman Langer. The mill opened for business in March
1953. The first dairy cow grinding was done on that day for
Mertz Weber.
A grand opening was held in September 1953. The first
Beautena dairy heifer was won by Joseph Wenzel at that
event. An egg laying contest was held with pullets entered by
Richard Leick, Mrs. Howard Lloyd, Norman Graveen and
Mrs. Ed Kafka.
A number of additions were completed over the years. In
1978 a drive through with truck hoist was built. Bulk storage
and a cob corn roller mill were added in 1984-85.