Beaver Manufacturing celebrated its 40th anniversary in business with a banquet Saturday night at DeKalb Technical College in Covington.

The Mansfield-based company chemically treats yarn for use in a variety of hose applications, from a plastic or rubber garden hose to the incredibly thick rubber and metal-reinforced hoses that support oil rigs hundreds of miles off shore.

The company was founded in 1971 by Ed Needham and Kenneth King. Ed still owns the company, and he and his wife, Nonie, are also celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

Long-time employees spoke about their experiences at Beaver and two suppliers made donations in honor of Beaver to the Miracle League of Newton County and the Arts Association of Newton County.

A group of Oxford Youth Singers, which includes grades eight to 12, sang a medley of songs from a recent performance of "Hello Dolly!" The group is part of the arts association, which needs further donations as it is facing a 100,000 deficit this year, said director Buncie Lanners.

The company is planning to add $1 million worth of equipment this year as it continues to expand its global scope of operations.

For a full history of Beaver, click here.