Carrying On the Petrillo Stone Legacy for 45 Years

A milestone in any career, I am now celebrating my 45th year continuing the legacy of my family’s stone business, Petrillo Stone Corporation out of Mount Vernon, New York. I joined the firm after graduating college, in the Spring of 1979.

The History & the Legacy

The business was started by my Grandfather, Anthony T. Petrillo in 1907. My grandfather, uncle (August P. Petrillo), and father (John A. Petrillo) ran the company until the 1970s. During their reign, they were involved in some of the nation’s largest and most prestigious stone projects. Some of the larger projects that they were involved in were: Lincoln Center, The Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, The Time Life Building, The Albany Mall, and The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

After my uncle and father ran things, my cousin (August Petrillo Jr.), my brother (Frank Petrillo), and I took over the reins in the 1970s. Sadly, August Petrillo Jr. passed away in 2009, leaving just Frank and I to run the company.

Stone Meets the Modern Age

Throughout my life, I have seen the business transform from practically the Stone Age to using computerized saws and robots that carve intricate pieces of artwork, saving many, many hours of labor. There is practically nothing that we can’t fabricate in our shop in Mount Vernon.

During my time at the helm, I have worked on numerous high-profile projects including the Barclay Vesey Building after 9/11, Met Life, the Knickerbocker Club, Fordham University, N.Y. Life Insurance, 90 Park Avenue, the Commonwealth Lobby, the Union Club, and many, many more.

I can’t tell you how gratifying it is to see the different buildings while passing by, that three generations of my family took a part in. It gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment.

I have no plans of retiring any time soon! I am thrilled to be celebrating 45 years – cheers to 45 more.