About
Krist Oil Company was born during the early years of World War I in 1917, when Krist Atanasoff decided to purchase a candy store in the small town of Caspian, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He came to the United States in 1909 from southeastern Europe. Like many of our ancestors, he came to America in search of a better opportunity–that’s just what he found!
The Candy Store
1917 – When Krist Atanasoff first came to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, he was employed in the Iron County mines. After a few years, he decided to leave the mines to purchase and operate a candy store. This store became a cherished spot for the families of local miners, offering a variety of sandwiches, beverages, and candy. The candy store marked the beginning of Krist’s passion for serving his community. One day, Henry Ford stopped at the candy store for lunch and suggested he install gasoline pumps to accommodate the new form of transportation Ford was pioneering. As automobiles became more common, Krist expanded his services by installing gasoline pumps and offering full-service fill-ups to his customers.
Stambaugh Oil Company
1927 – As the use of automobiles increased, Krist’s business in Caspian flourished. Recognizing the growing demand for fuel, he began investing in expanding his oil business and selling high-quality fuel. Krist’s progressive nature and desire for innovation led him to establish the Stambaugh Oil Company.
The Tavern
1933 – When Prohibition ended, Krist seized the opportunity to purchase a tavern across the street from his candy store. With his ambition and strong work ethic, he successfully managed both establishments. Fuel pumps were added in front of the Tavern, offering full-service fill-ups to serve the community.
Partnership
1950 – Krist continued to operate his businesses and provide for his young family until 1950, when he formed a partnership with his son Stanley. Stanley had been working with his father since coming of age. Krist and Stanley managed the company together for nearly six years until Krist unexpectedly passed away in 1956.
Beginning of a Legacy
1956 – Stanley acquired the remaining shares of the family business and renamed it from Stambaugh Oil Company to Krist Oil Company in honor of his father. This marked the beginning of a lasting legacy.
Three Generations Later
Nearly half a century and three generations later, Krist Oil Company continues to thrive and proudly serve our community. Today, we own and operate 80 convenience stores across the Upper Peninsula, Northern Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Many of these stores were built by Stanley and his son with their own hands. Additionally, we keep countless homes warm during the frigid winter months with our reliable supply of Liquid Petroleum (LP) gas.
Present Day
Today, Krist Oil is a self-sufficient company that transports all of its fuel, grocery, and dairy to keep the convenience stores supplied weekly. A Home Heating business supplying propane to area homes is also an integral part of the Krist Oil Company with several propane plants in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The candy store and tavern may be gone, but the values of those small-town businesses still remain.