Ballard Sheet Metal Works, Inc.

In 1919, Oscar Simpson bought out Oscar Ranes and moved the company to a larger facility, which is now the historic St. Charles Hotel building, one block south of the company's present location. In the '30s, Oscar Simpson died, and his son Harold assumed management of the firm. By then, the business had changed. The mills had closed, but the fishing industry had continued to grow. Harold Simpson shifted the emphasis of the business to the area's small shipyards, such as the old Sagstad Shipyard and the canneries of Alaska. 

This portion of the business has continued to grow through the years. During World War II, Ballard Sheet Metal fabricated and installed ventilation systems and other parts for the U.S. Navy.

In 1957, Donald H. Simpson (grandson of the founder) graduated from the University of Washington and joined his father in the firm. They worked together until Harold Simpson died in 1971. Donald H. Simpson assumed control of the company at that time. Today, the fourth generation of the Simpson family has assumed control of the company. David B. Simpson and Douglas A. Simpson are now operating the business.