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This year, Fowler Brothers Co. Home & Patio proudly celebrates 140 years as a family-owned business, deeply rooted in the heart of Chattanooga. Since 1885, the Fowler family has built a legacy of quality, integrity, and service, transforming the way generations of families furnish their homes. From humble beginnings to a multi-generational success story, their journey is a remarkable testament to resilience, innovation, and community dedication.
The Early Years: 1885 – 1930
The Fowler legacy began in 1885 with James G. Sterchi, who sold goods door-to-door in East Tennessee from a horse-drawn buggy. His hard work and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for what would become one of the South’s most respected furniture brands. In 1886, James and his brother John Calvin Sterchi opened their first furniture store in Knoxville, marking the start of a family tradition that would last over a century.
In 1911, John Calvin Sterchi partnered with his son-in-law, John O. Fowler, to establish Sterchi Brothers & Fowler in downtown Chattanooga, next to what is now the Tivoli Theatre. By 1926, the Chattanooga location was thriving and recognized as “The South’s Greatest Furniture and Music Stores,” furnishing more than 23 hotels across the Southeast. This expansion led to the official incorporation of the business in 1930 as Fowler Brothers Company, operating in both Chattanooga and Knoxville.
Mid‑Century Growth: 1940 – 1970
During the 1940s, the company entered a new chapter under the leadership of Richard Calvin Fowler, Sr., who became president in 1943. The store proudly supported the World War II effort, partnering with Westinghouse to provide appliances and equipment. In 1948, after a major renovation, thousands of Chattanoogans flocked downtown for “The New Fowler’s Opening,” a three-day grand event showcasing a reimagined showroom.
In 1953, further upgrades were made to the Broad Street showroom to reflect modern design trends and consumer tastes. Then, in 1968, Fowler Brothers introduced a revolutionary retail concept by launching Richard Fowler Galleries on I-24. Known as the “store of rooms,” the new layout helped customers visualize beautifully curated, fully furnished living spaces, an innovative shopping experience ahead of its time.
New Showroom: 1970s – 1990s
By 1973, the Fowler family opened a new store at 1903 E. 24th Street Place.The event signaled a new era of growth and leadership. Just two years later, in 1975, they expanded again with a showroom on Highway 153 near Northgate Mall. This location offered premium lifestyle furniture collections arranged to inspire customers with real-life design possibilities.
In the 1980s, Fowler Brothers deepened its presence in downtown Chattanooga by opening a new location in the Clemons Building on Chestnut Street. They also launched The Patio Shop at the I-24 campus, signaling a move into the outdoor furniture market. In 1981, Richard Calvin Fowler Jr. became president, starting the fourth generation of family leadership. By 1985, the store was offering competitive “North Carolina furniture prices” locally, making high-quality furniture more accessible to Chattanoogans.
The mid-1980s brought further expansion as the interior furniture wing at the I-24 showroom was enlarged. A proud highlight came in 1987 when Richard Fowler furnished the space used during President Ronald Reagan’s commencement speech at UTC. In 1988, the family celebrated 77 years in Chattanooga with the opening of Fowler’s Furniture Plantation on 4th Avenue, a special milestone reflecting deep community ties and continued innovation.
Family Continuity & Consolidation: 1990s – 2010
As the 1990s arrived, Richard Fowler Jr. and Sarah C. Fowler began consolidating the family’s business operations around the I-24 campus. This strategic move brought all resources under one roof and ushered in a new identity: The Furniture Shoppe & The Patio Shop. Their children, Sarah Chappell, Richard III, and Walton Carter Fowler, joined the business during this era, ensuring the continued legacy of family leadership.
The company became known for its exceptional service, with a delivery program that transported more than 1,000 pieces of furniture each year across the Southeast. Known as “Delivery with a Smile,” this program earned loyal customers and glowing word-of-mouth thanks to dependable service teams like the beloved Lester Early. In 2010, Fowler Brothers celebrated its 125th anniversary, marking five generations of family dedication to quality and community.
Brand Evolution: 2012 – 2025
In 2012, Fowler Brothers launched the “Pass It Forward” holiday campaign, continuing a legacy of giving back. The campaign supported Toys for Tots and honored a long-standing tradition that dated back to 1949, when the store gave away toys to children in need. The spirit of community remained central to the business’s mission.
By 2016, Walton Carter Fowler officially stepped into the role of president and COO, becoming the fifth generation to lead the company. His father, Richard C. Fowler Jr., transitioned to the role of chairman and CEO. With this generational handoff came a renewed energy and strategic vision for the future. In 2020, the company had a rebrand, by changing the name to Fowler Brothers Co. Home & Patio, and began major renovations to the I-24 campus to align with modern tastes while honoring its legacy.
Now, in 2025, Fowler Brothers Co. proudly celebrates 140 years in business. The company created a beautifully updated indoor and outdoor showroom, refreshed branding, and a new digital experience through its redesigned website. The story continues, with style and service that meet today’s needs while carrying forward a rich tradition.
The Secret to FBCO’s Lasting Success
For five generations, Fowler Brothers has stayed true to its roots. Since the beginning, the company has always been guided by the same family values of hard work, quality service, and personal relationships.
Throughout its history, Fowler Brothers has prioritized personal service. From hand-drawn advertisements in the early 1900s to modern SEO strategies and design consultations, the company has always focused on providing the best experience possible for its customers.
Their formula for success is timeless: “Quality + Speed of Delivery = Customer Satisfaction.”
Fowler Brothers Co. continues to be Chattanooga’s premier destination for fine furniture and patio living. With expertly designed showrooms, top-tier brands like Stickley, Rowe, and Stressless, and a reputation for thoughtful service, the company is poised for continued success.
As we reflect on 140 years of tradition, innovation, and family leadership, one thing is clear: the Fowler Brothers story is still being written, and Chattanooga will always be at the heart of it
FAQs About Fowler Brothers Co.
What types of furniture brands does Fowler Brothers Co. carry?
Fowler Brothers Co. partners with well-known brands like Stickley, American Leather, Rowe, or Tempur-Pedic. We offer a collection of premium indoor and outdoor furniture from these and other quality manufacturers.
Check the brands we work with here.
Can I get help with design for both my indoor and outdoor spaces?
Yes, our design consultation services cover both indoor and outdoor areas. Our experts can help you plan and furnish any space in your home, ensuring a cohesive and beautiful look that fits your style.
