Our History
Building on nearly a century of innovation, integrity,
and impact
Real innovation isn’t just about what’s built; it’s about how it’s built, who it serves, and the legacy it leaves behind. Founded in 1936 by Frank Kenan as Kenan Oil Company in Durham, North Carolina, the business evolved from distributing kerosene and heating oil to becoming a dynamic enterprise defined by curiosity, innovation, and integrity.
From One Company
To Many
Under the leadership of Edward Holmes, the company transformed into Holmes Oil in 1997 and expanded into retail and real estate—laying the groundwork for what would become Holmes Companies.
Today, Holmes Companies serves as the parent organization overseeing multiple ventures: Holmes Oil Company, Holmes Core Properties, Holmes Development, and Holmes Partners. Across these entities, we’re united by the same entrepreneurial spirit that’s guided us for generations.
Our investments extend beyond land and property to the ideas and people that bring them to life. From long-term community developments like Reeves Farm in Pittsboro, Powell Place, Local70, and Top Chord, to hospitality projects such as Home2 Suites by Hilton, we remain deeply committed to shaping meaningful, enduring progress.
