1950s - 1980s:
The Beginning
Grandfather’s Vision
In 1954, the founder’s grandfather immigrated to Venezuela from Santiago de Compostela, Spain, at the age of 17, bringing with him his knowledge of woodworking. After working for eight years at “Fábrica de Muebles Modelos,” he opened his own carpentry workshop in 1962 in Maracaibo, known as "Ebanistería y Carpintería Santiago de Compostela C.A."
In the 1970s, the family moved to Manzanillo, where they expanded their operations by establishing a furniture factory. In 1972, they acquired land along the Perijá highway and founded their first family sawmill. José Manuel Fernández, the eldest son, started to play a more significant role in the business during this time.
ABOUT US
1980s - 2020:
The Evolution
Father and Son’s Leadership
By the 1980s, the family business continued to grow, adding a second sawmill in Villa del Rosario. This expansion allowed them to focus on both furniture manufacturing and sawmill operations, further cementing their role in the Venezuelan timber industry.
In the 1990s, the family shifted its focus fully to sawmill operations. José Manuel Fernández, the eldest son, established his own sawmill within the family’s structure. In 2000, with a substantial loan, he modernized the facility and founded “Aserradero y Maderera Santiago,” marking the beginning of a new phase for the business.
2020 & Beyond:
The Future
2020 & Beyond:
The Future
Grandnephew’s Vision
In 2023, HARDENSE was launched as the global-facing arm of the family business, built on more than five decades of expertise. Now under the leadership of the next generation, HARDENSE aims to expand into international markets.
With robust commercial partnerships and a solid commitment to sustainability and quality, the company is ready to introduce the beauty and strength of Venezuelan tropical hardwoods to the world, continuing a proud family legacy of excellence.