About Us
100 Years of Goedecke Decorating
Want more history? Watch this documentary video to gain more insights into the history of the Goedecke family and their business.
Chapter one in the history of Goedecke Paint, Flooring and Design Center. Our founder, George Goedecke and his story from prisoner of war to entrepreneur.
Chapter 2 - The story of George Goedecke’s continues as we focus on the early years of the business.
100 years decorating New England’s finest homes.
Our History
1923
1st Generation: George Goedecke achieved “Meister Maler” (Master Painter) status in the decorative arts at the Kaiser’s Palace in Berlin, Germany, but when rampant inflation between the World Wars destroyed his previously flourishing business, he decided to move his family to America. In those early years, he was often seen tenaciously pushing a bicycle with no tires through the streets of Manchester with painting supplies slung over the handlebars. Thanks to his industrious nature, George was able to not only establish Goedecke Painting, but expand his business by training a crew in painting, wallpapering, gold leaf, and elaborate faux finishes.
1932
2nd Generation: In the decades that followed, the Goedecke family steadfastly maintained their work ethic and attention to detail. Herbert Goedecke joined his Dad at the age of 16, after completing his sophomore year at the West High School. Father and son soon expanded the business to include more than 20 employees, and when Herbert was called to serve in the US Army at the end of WW2, “Great-great-grandpa” George kept the company moving forward until his son’s return.
1969
3rd Generation: As the business reputation grew, so did the specialized requests from their clientele. After finishing a business degree and serving in the United States Army Corps of Engineers, 1st Lieutenant Alan Goedecke returned home and formed a partnership with his father, Hebert. Sadly, before the final papers could be signed, Alan’s dad died of a massive heart attack and Alan suddenly found himself in charge of the company. Alan used his business knowledge to expand the business from primarily contracting services, to an interior design showroom.
1999
4th Generation: Over the years, the Goedecke family has remained resolutely committed to providing their customers with high quality products and artisan installation. Today, siblings Herb and Peter have joined their parents on the Board of Directors and the family continues to increase the variety of products and services that they offer. They are proud to be recognized throughout New England for not only beautiful products, but unwavering dedication to personal service.
Present Day
5th generation: The family legacy continues as the next generation of Goedeckes entertain themselves with sweeping floors and crushing boxes when they visit the store. We are excited to see what the future will bring.
Goedecke Paint, Flooring & Design Center has a rich history of giving back to the community. Our values, which have remained unchanged since the company’s founding in 1923, support building a stronger, more well-connected, and more generous community. We strive to improve everything we touch whether it be a home, or a heart.
Community
Charitable Partnerships
As long-standing members of multiple service foundations, and leaders in nonprofit organizations, the Goedecke family lives out their belief that service is the cornerstone of community. We proudly support the following organizations among many others:
Charitable Contributions
In search of donations for your local charitable organization? Contact us! We strive to be as generous as possible. We are proud to be part of this community. If you see us at the ski trails, grocery store, or anywhere else in town, please say hello!
Environment
Goedecke family assisted in the design, development and construction of the cross country ski trails at Earl Legacy Park. This ski area has become the premier x-c skiing and racing venue in southern New Hampshire. Goedecke Paint, Flooring & Design Center continues to support the ski area by annually sponsoring the trail grooming equipment and fuel.
Youth Sports
Our deep commitment to active volunteering means that we not only sponsor multiple local sports teams, but the family actively coaches too. A few of our favorite teams:
Bill Koch Junior Ski Team
Manchester High School ski teams
Bedford Little League
Bedford Cross Country Ski Club
Bedford Crew Club
Bedford Barracudas
Gate City Charter school