In the annals of history, there are tales that remind us of the incredible power of determination, innovation, and hard work. One such story is that of Harry Clemmons, a World War II veteran who defied the odds and transformed a mere $14 into a multi-million dollar enterprise known as Champion Laboratories. This is the story of how a man with an eighth-grade education and a dream went on to revolutionize the oil filter business.

It all began in the small village of Barnhill, Illinois (about 15 minutes south of Fairfield) in September 1949. Harry Clemmons, along with his brother Howard Clemmons, ventured into the oil filter business. Harry once said, “If there ever was a business that started on the ground floor, it was this one.” Armed with nothing but determination and a meager $14, they embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever.

The duo’s first headquarters was none other than Harry’s father’s garage, situated on the west side of Barnhill near the railroad tracks. Here, amidst humble surroundings, they set to work. With a vision to repurpose discarded filter shells, they began repacking filters by hand. Their workforce comprised solely of Harry and his brother – a testament to their unyielding commitment.

In those early days, every task was a challenge. The filters of that era were what Harry described as “metal cans packed with cotton waste,” resembling something akin to peach cans. Herein lay the first hurdle: Harry needed to invent a machine that could disassemble and reassemble these filters without altering their dimensions. It was a daunting task, one that consumed his time and energy. But as he often said, “I had to invent and rebuild the machine to do the job as we went along.”

By the year 1949, bypass filters were the norm. Harry’s innovation was pivotal; it marked a turning point in the industry. His invention not only streamlined the filter repacking process but also set the foundation for a business model that would lead to monumental success.

After meticulously rebuilding the filters, Harry and his brother packaged them in paper bags bearing the name “Kleen Pak.” This was more than just a name; it was a promise of quality and excellence. It signified their dedication to delivering a superior product to their customers, a principle that would remain at the core of their enterprise.

Fast forward to the present day, and the Kleen Pak Manufacturing Company has evolved into Champion Laboratories, a company that boasts revenues of $350 million. The journey from a garage in Barnhill to an industry giant is a testament to Harry Clemmons’ indomitable spirit, his willingness to embrace challenges, and his ability to innovate against all odds.

Harry Clemmons’ story is a reminder that success knows no boundaries. It is born from determination, nurtured by innovation, and driven by unwavering perseverance. As we look back on the remarkable journey of Champion Laboratories, let it serve as an inspiration to us all – a beacon of hope that even the smallest beginnings can lead to the grandest triumphs.

Although Harry’s part in this story lasted only 6 years, if it were not for Harry, the Champion Laboratories that we see today would never have happened.