A History of Innovation

For over 150 years, Sherwin-Williams has been providing trusted coating solutions that protect and beautify what matters most to our customers. We recognize that you choose to rely on us for what is often the most visible and iconic element of your brand or product. And that’s a responsibility we take seriously. Our finishing solutions go beyond the coatings to deliver value in every aspect of your process.

We proudly offer the industry’s most innovative products and comprehensive programs, delivered by our people who understand what matters most to OEMs and finishers. To earn your business, we become your partner — utterly committed to your long-term success. With the coatings, knowledge, tools, and support you need, let us show you how we will be your complete solution.

1866

Following his service in the US Civil War, Henry Sherwin relocates to Cleveland, Ohio, and together with Edward Williams joins a fledgling paint company in 1866.

1877

Henry Sherwin, the company's first CEO, invents the first ready-mixed paint and resealable paint can. The product is labeled "SWP" - Sherwin-Williams Paint.

1883

The company dedicates a full-time salesman to developing the railroad market and procedes to develop a full line of finishes for all types of railroad equipment, including locomotives, passenger and freight cards, stations, and other types of railway property.

1905

The Cover the Earth design is introduced as the company's logo. The message of providing a coating for virtually every customer need, anywhere in the world, encapsulates Henry Sherwin's original vision and the customer focus of our employees today.

1939

In 1939, a national conference convened to draw up a long list of standards for school bus construction. Sherwin-Williams color consultant Harry H. Scheid attended the meeting and played a vital role in the selection of the color yellow for the buses. The color that was chosen, named National School Bus Chrome, was deemed the color that is easiest to see in the limited light of early morning and late afternoon.

1941

One of the greatest achievements in industry history, "Kem-Tone was a revolutionary new paint that didn't require primer or sealer, greatly reducing the time, effort and expense of painting for homeowners. Increasing customer productivity remains a guiding pillar of our strategy in all of the segments we serve.

2001

The new dedicated Chemical Coatings division serves manufacturers in a range of industrial segments. The division would specialize in serving the needs of wood product finishers in cabinetry, furniture, and more, as well as industrial OEMs coating everything from farm equipment to household appliances.

2016

Our 150th birthday was commemorated by ringing the bell at the NYSE and various celebrations in Machester UK, Orlando and Cleveland. Sherwin-Williams did far more than look back in the 150th year, and agreed to buy Valspar, ensuring continued growth for the future.

Sherwin-Williams celebrating 150 years at New York Stock Exchange

2017

Sherwin-Williams completes its acquisition of Valspar, the largest in its history. Valspar's strong reputation and presence on six continents greatly expanded the company's global footprint, and added industry-leading capabilities in Packaging Coatings and Coil & Extrusion Coatings.