There were many significant accomplishments in the first part of the 20th Century, including the Model T Ford (1908), the Wright Brothers’ first flight (1903), and even the invention of the chocolate chip cookie (1930).
But before them all, a man in the rural Wisconsin farming town of Cicero saw another need for society following a catastrophic event that took place in the nearby community of New Richmond. News spread quickly about the 1899 tornado that ravaged the area, killing more than 100 people and injuring 500 others. Homes were destroyed, and property damage approached $800,000. In modern dollars, that would equate to more than $24 million.
One man’s vision
Julius Bubolz, a local farmer, decided that something needed to be done to ease the inevitable financial burden caused by future storms. On March 1, 1900, he shared his plan for a mutual insurance company with his neighbors, proposing that each member would have an equal voice in management and promise to assume his share of losses and expenses.
With a handshake, The Farmers Home Mutual Hail, Tornado, and Cyclone Insurance Company of Seymour, Wisconsin (now SECURA Insurance) was born.
Times have changed
This year our company celebrates 120 years of serving policyholders. What started in Julius Bubolz’s farmhouse has grown to become a property and casualty insurance company with coverages for businesses, homes, autos, farms, agribusinesses, nonprofits, and special events in 12 states.
While life is much different now than it was in 1900, much of what we experience each day at SECURA still has its roots in Bubolz’s beliefs and actions. SECURA remains a mutual company that is owned entirely by our policyholders instead of stockholders and outside investors. We also have remained dedicated to the independent agency model, relying on the strong relationships formed with agents and policyholders.
Dedication to the community is what the company was founded on and remains an integral part of our genuine culture. We continue to support youth development, education, environmental efforts, the arts, and providing basic needs in the communities we serve.
As our company embarks on our 120th year, we are excited about the future and the next 120 years ahead.
