A Long History of Quality and Service

Avellino Duchini, a skilled mason, arrived in the United States from his native Italy during the Roaring Twenties.  The ambitious young man took a daytime job with an Erie contractor.  But his evenings were spent in his garage, crafting precast laundry tubs and concrete vases.

In 1932, Duchini realized a long-held dream with the establishment of his own block plant.  While he was adding the newest equipment to his production line, Duchini also added dedicated and talented family members to the A. Duchini team.
shdowal2

Avellino Duchini

In 1946 his son, Adelmo, came from Italy to join the family business, eventually taking over the post of Production Manager.

Although its manufacturing techniques have changed dramatically through the years, the A. Duchini organization has maintained an unswerving dedication to the generations of Erie-area families who have served as employees.

The A. Duchini organization has come a long way from the small operation that started in 1932.  The first hand-operated block-making machine, put into service in 1937, produced only 100 to 500 blocks per day.  Today's fully automated, state-of-the-art factory can turn out over 28,000.

Through the years, the A. Duchini line has grown from a small selection of block types to a full range of masonry products.  The standard 8 and 10 inch residential blocks and the 12 inch commercial block remain the foundation of the company's business.  But in the early 90's the list of products expanded to include the Giovanni Line and outdoor stone-faced block for garden walls.