Stauf Adhesives: A History of Innovation The history of Stauf Adhesives, nearly two centuries old, is colored by one family’s dedication, resourcefulness and hard work. Historical records trace the beginnings of the company to 1654 when Jakob Stauf used bark from young oak trees to tan animal hides to be made into leather products. When the Napoleonic wars brought about a depressed economy in Germany, Eberhard Stauf began recycling remnants from his tannery into the production of glue. As that segment of the business grew, he founded Stauf Adhesives in 1828. Stauf discovered that glue from hides had a greater strength factor than the bone glues which were in common use. His strategic business decision gave the company an economic freedom unlike others in the leather industry. During the next four decades, Eberhard Stauf used his genius and the best technology available to improve his product. When he died in 1862, his son, Wilhelm, took over leadership of the company and expanded the operation. One of his ventures was a factory which used the hair waste from the animal hides to make felt. The Twentieth Century brought with it severe economic challenges. Raw materials for glue factories became more expensive and harder to secure. In fact, the shortage of raw materials and wartime turmoil eventually forced the company to shut down for a short period. During the 1930s, Werner Stauf, who had studied chemistry and received his doctorate from the University of Leipzig, experimented with gelatin and other substances. His experiments proved highly successful and the company recovered from the war and depression. However, World War II again left the company in jeopardy. Air raids destroyed the entire production plant and warehouse. The History of STAUF Adhesives is One of Hard Work, Innovation, and a Determination to Succeed.