Sandusky Paint Co. was established in 1927 by Robert L. Wilke Sr. Primarily started as a distributor of paints and varnishes for the consumer and contractor markets, basically distributing white lead, linseed oils, solvents and painter supplies. Being located in Sandusky, Ohio on Lake Erie the marine paint and related products were a must. Over the years Sandusky Paint Co. had been distributing its products to several area boat builders such as Lyman Boat Works, Mathews Boat Co., Inland Seas, and several other companies. In the 1950’s Lyman Boat Works asked Sandusky Paint to produce a special mahogany filler stain and bilge paint for its line of boats. Thus came the advent of #4973 Lyman Mahogany Filler Stain and #4652 Lyman Sand Tan. As time went on many of the area boat builders ceased operations. But the restoration area of the business went on and has become a large factor today.

    Sandusky Paint, being a Pettit Marine Paint distributor, continued to press on in the area of marine paint products under the guidance of Robert L. Wilke Jr. The company, now in its second generation remained a strong force in the marine restoration markets in addition to the expansion of its retail, contractor, and industrial markets. In the 1970’s and 80’s the grandsons of the founder joined the company to make the third generation in the paint business. Efforts were being made to expand the marine restoration business by Sandusky Paint. In the 1980’s with most of the marine builders focusing on fiberglass, the wood boat market of products were discontinued by many large companies.

    With this in mind Sandusky Paint developed the Chris Craft line of products, Red Lead Primer was added,and others. In 1990 Robert L. Wilke Jr. past away and his two sons Robert L. Wilke III and Paul E. Wilke took over the company and are the current company directors. In 1996 a Marine Enamel Paint line was developed for the sole purpose of the marine restoration markets. The Sandusky Paint Company, now in its third generation, today and in the future is committed to high quality products and the customers satisfaction of these.