The Top 8 Oldest Companies in American History

Most companies follow a predictive lifecycle, moving from start-up, to growth, and exit in just a few short years. For Fortune 500 companies that lifespan is a little longer, hovering around 40-50 years. A lucky few, however, continue on way past this mark and cement their place in history. Many of North America’s oldest companies are now broaching 300 years old! Having endured countless wars, stock market crashes, and cultural shifts, they continue to survive because of their willingness to adapt. Here are the oldest companies in American History.