About Us

The Elyria Fence Company has stood strongly since 1932. The family owned business that was started by Thomas Polen has become a landmark in Elyria, and a strong presence in most Northern Ohio communities. As a young Italian immigrant in the early 1900's, Mr. Polen moved to America searching for the American dream. A farmer and tool and die maker by trade, he scraped together what little he had, and with the help and encouragement from his family, he started the Elyria Fence Co. in downtown Elyria. Through the years, the small company outgrew its space and relocated to Oberlin Road where it still remains in the original building. With the semi-retirement of Mr. Polen two new owners moved up through the ranks. As children growing up in the company, Tom and Betty Polen got their start at the bottom. Tom began working in the shop and cleaning up. As time went on, he worked on the crews installing fence, and through the years became experienced in all phases of the business. In 1963 Tom volunteered to join the U.S. Navy and served four years fighting for his country in Vietnam on the USS Oriskany. Upon returning home, he assumed the role of President for Elyria Fence. His years of experience have enabled the company to offer more to a consumer than any other fence company in Northern Ohio. Betty also had the fortunate advantage of growing up in the business. She combined her knowledge of the industry with her financial wizardry to complete the teamwork that is so essential to EFI's success. Maintaining a theme of tradition and history, Tom and Betty were joined by Tom's daughter, Heather, who started out managing the marketing & promotion for the company. Upon Betty's passing in 2025, Heather assumed the role as co-owner with her father Tom. As the company still grows and molds itself to the current times, Elyria Fence offers their client a personalized, hands-on touch. In a world of impersonal large corporations, Elyria Fence distinguishes itself by placing high importance on customer service. They do not believe in pre-fabricated work, and will accept nothing less than a high-quality, handcrafted fence. A consumer, residential or commercial, can expect over 150 different designs of wood fences along with chain link, and ornamental iron or aluminum fencing.