Our History

Our Story: A Legacy of Love and Remembrance

For 150 years, we’ve been privileged to serve the Central Pennsylvania community by helping families design fitting memorials to honor their loved ones. Our journey began in 1875 when Nelson Howard Baughman established N.H. Baughman’s Marble Works in Dover, Pennsylvania. Nelson was a master craftsman passionate about creating beautiful monuments that would stand the test of time.

Nelson’s story is one of dedication and perseverance. He spent years honing his craft, learning the intricacies of marble and stonework. His shop, nestled near the town square, became a hub of activity as families came to him seeking memorials that would honor their loved ones. Nelson’s attention to detail, commitment to quality, and compassionate nature quickly earned him a reputation as the go-to memorialist in the region.

As the years passed, Nelson’s family became increasingly involved in the business. His son, Harry Uriah, inherited his father’s skills and devotion to the craft. Harry expanded the company, taking on new challenges and exploring innovative techniques. The successive generations, Nelson Merle and Donald, continued this legacy, each contributing their unique perspectives and skills to the business.

In 1961, Donald oversaw the construction of a new workshop, ensuring that the essence of the craft, nurtured over decades, would continue to flourish. This expansion allowed us to meet the evolving needs of the families we served while remaining true to our core values of honesty, quality, and integrity.

Today, Sharon Baughman-Witmer, Donald’s daughter, and her husband, Warren, carry on the family tradition with pride and dedication. Together, they embody the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring our company remains relevant in the industry.

Our Legacy

We’re proud to honor our past while looking toward the future. Our legacy is built on the values of honesty, quality, and integrity that Nelson established in 1875. We promise to continue serving you with care, empathy, and authenticity, ensuring that your loved one’s legacy is forever etched in stone and in the memories of those who remember them.

Our Commitment to You

At Baughman Memorial Works, we’re dedicated to delivering exceptional service, unparalleled quality, and compassionate care. We believe every family deserves a personalized experience tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Here are just a few ways we’re committed to serving you:

  • Honesty: We’ll always be transparent in our dealings with you, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.
  • Quality: We’ll never compromise on the quality of our materials or craftsmanship, ensuring that your memorial will stand the test of time.
  • Integrity: We’ll treat you with respect, empathy, and kindness, recognizing the trust you’ve placed in us.

Timeline

  • 1875: Nelson Howard Baughman establishes N.H. Baughman’s Marble Works.
  • 1900s: Harry Uriah Baughman expands the business.
  • 1920s: Nelson Merle Baughman introduces new techniques.
  • 1961: Donald Baughman constructs a new workshop.
  • 1980s: Sharon Baughman-Witmer joins the business.
  • 2000s: Warren Witmer joins the company.
  • 2025: Baughman Memorial Works celebrates 150 years.
Historical photo