Harris Welding

Harris Welding Works was opened in 1936 by Harold A. Harris. It is the oldest business in Citrus Heights and been in the same location for 73 years. Times have changed over the years when their first company telephone number was 549-X and the only address that could be placed on company calendars and advertising was “one mile south of Roseville on US 40.” US 40 has since become known as Auburn Road.

In the beginning, Kathleen laughingly explained, business was conducted a little differently. Her grandfather once received a cow as payment in full for a welding job, and in 1950, when her father was running the business, he was given a trumpet as collateral for a welding job and the family still has the trumpet.

Harold A. Harris left the business to his son Kent and his wife Nora in 1954. The name of the business became Harris Welding. In 1977, Kent at his passing, left the business to his wife Nora and their four children. Nora divided the company equally among the family and to this day they and two grandchildren sit on the corporation’s Board of Directors

We interviewed Kathleen Harris for our Connections article, and she has been actively involved in the business for 32 years first as manager and now as President of the company. The company today is a Certified Small /Woman owned business thriving and proudly serving the five counties surrounding it. There are now locations in Auburn and Nevada City as well as its original shop in Citrus Heights on Auburn Road. The Citrus Heights shop is now the “heart” of the business and will be forever more.

In 1995, the business became Harris Industrial Gases. Loyal to its roots, the Harris family business is an active supporter and charter member of Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce. They sponsor scholarships to area students, and are active in the Red, White and Blue Parade each year providing helium for the festivities.

How has Harris Industrial Gases impacted Citrus Heights? Just look around!! For generations now, if it had to do with steel, Harold Harris’ Welding Works was usually a subcontractor.

By Cathie DuChesne