Dealership, city celebrate 110 years of business

I.G. Burton and Milford are inseparable, that according to Mayor Archie Campbell.  And Saturday, locals in Milford came out to help celebrate 110 years of business.  This feat making them just one of less than 40 dealerships in the country to serve customers for over 100 continuous years.

As the car dealership continues to grow, so does the city.  Demonstrating a strong community-business partnership.

“Milford’s a good town.  Milford’s a business town.  All of Delmarva, and particularly Kent and Sussex County are going through a tremendous transition,” said former president David Burton.  “So we’re trying to keep up with the growth of the communities.”

On display for all to watch was a video showing humble beginnings for the business which has become well known throughout the peninsula with five venues.

“My grandfather, i.g. Burton, who’s the namesake of the business really was very instrumental in the growth of Milford.  Worked with the city on a lot of projects, he donated the first ambulance to Milford Hospital,” said president Charles Burton.

And on display outside was some history come to life.  Vehicles bought from the dealership throughout the years with the hoods up, and the wheels polished.

“We’ve asked them to come out, bring their old cars, have a nice little car show, just to add to the excitement to show that really how the car business has evolved over the 110 years that it has,” said Charles.

In addition to their Milford location, i.g. Burton also owns dealerships in Smyrna, Seaford, Lewes and Berlin, Maryland.