How a Wife’s Cooking Preference Founded Suburban Propane

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re diving into the remarkable tale of how one woman’s culinary choice led to the birth of a thriving business nearly a century ago. It’s a story that dates back to 1928, a time when gas line infrastructures were sparse, limiting the options for cooking preferences.

Adele Anton, along with her husband Mark, relocated from Newark, N.J., to West Orange, N.J. to build their dream home. During the construction phase, Adele faced a significant challenge – no gas lines in the area. Having grown accustomed to the ease and efficiency of cooking with gas, the thought of resorting to kerosene or electricity was unappealing to Adele. Faced with this dilemma, Mark sought to find a solution that would align with her cooking preferences.

Mark stumbled upon an advertisement in a trade journal for a company called Rock Gas that specialized in providing propane and equipment for home installations. In the hope of finding a solution to his wife’s cooking woes, Mark promptly placed an order with Rock Gas.

Little did they know that this seemingly simple transaction would signal the beginning of a transformative journey.

Mrs. Anton became Rock Gas’s inaugural Suburban Propane customer, delighted to resume her culinary endeavors with propane. What began as a practical solution for one woman’s kitchen soon evolved into something much greater.

Empowered by Adele’s satisfaction, Mr. Anton recognized an opportunity to cater to the needs of countless others facing similar challenges. The prospect of bringing the convenience and benefits of propane to homes far and wide is how Suburban Propane was born. As demand grew, Mr. Anton expanded his vision, dedicating resources to innovation and sustainability. This led to the establishment of the suburban propane renewable energy subsidiary, which focused on developing cleaner energy solutions for environmentally conscious consumers. Through this initiative, Suburban Propane aimed not only to provide reliable service but also to contribute to a greener future for the community.

What began as a humble solution to a simple cooking problem for one family has grown into a thriving multi-million-dollar enterprise that serves over one million customers across 42 states. Suburban Propane looks forward to a future filled with continued growth, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to our customers and the environment. As the company continues to expand its services, it remains dedicated to educating customers on the propane benefits for RV travel, ensuring they enjoy a safe and convenient journey. From efficient heating solutions to reliable fuel options, Suburban Propane is committed to enhancing the travel experiences of adventure seekers nationwide. With an eye on sustainability, the company aims to innovate further, bringing eco-friendly solutions to the forefront of the propane industry. As we expand our services, we remain dedicated to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. By going green with renewable propane, we are not only enhancing our product offerings but also making a positive impact on the planet. Our vision is to lead the industry in environmentally friendly energy solutions while maintaining the highest standards of service for our valued customers. As we embrace our role as a leader in sustainable energy, we are excited to share new ways for our customers to enjoy their favorite moments. Our upcoming campaign will feature delicious suburban propane game day recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also highlight the benefits of cooking with renewable energy. Together, we can celebrate great food while supporting a healthier planet.

Click here to learn more about our 95-year history.