When Eric Anderson came to Oakland, California from Sweden in 1923, he adapted quickly to American life. His life revolved around his family, his work and his Masonic lodge.
In 1923 and at age twenty-three Eric Anderson immigrated from Grasmark, Sweden to Oakland, California. Although he spoke no English, his very first evening he was at citizenship class, and the next morning he started work as a carpenter. He lived with his aunt, Sohpia Clark. She arranged for his job, only allowed English in her household and immediately sent young Eric out for errands and shopping. He happily took the plunge and quickly became a proud and productive American.
In a few years Eric became a superintendent for John J. Moore Construction Company. There he helped build the city of Oakland and the Oakland Army Base. He was hard-driving and his standards were high. Not everyone could work for him, but he gave a fair chance to all. One young man applied without shoes or overalls. When Eric learned he had no money, he bought him an outfit and put him to work.
Eric’s sense of craftsmanship was fundamental to his makeup, and this was evident in the way he cared about tools. He carefully inspected a new carpenter’s tools before hiring him. He would spend weeks finding a saw with the right steel blade, then cut off the teeth and file new ones exactly like he wanted.
In 1937 Eric married Marion Flick. They had three sons, Dave, Don and George. Needing to support his family, Eric teamed up with estimator Harold Haglund. On December 4th, 1945 they founded Anderson-Haglund, Inc., which later became Eric F. Anderson, Inc.
Delivering quality and service to his customers became a chief focus in Eric Anderson’s life. He worked seven days a week. He never wasted time. He would not leave a job until it was done right. He practiced the highest principles of honesty. He unselfishly helped people in need. His example and dedication nurtured a vital spirit that lives today and attracts the finest employees and clients to Eric F. Anderson, Inc.
