Building Legacies: Gebhart Holdings in Wabash, Indiana

In the scenic town of Wabash, Indiana, a remarkable story unfolds, one that showcases the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Gebhart family. At its heart is Gebhart Holdings, with a portfolio of companies that have not only transformed the town’s economic landscape but have also contributed significantly to its growth.

The tale begins in 2000 when Thomas Gebhart, a seasoned professional in the scrap metal industry, founded the flagship company of Gebhart Holdings—Metal Source. With a focus on zinc dross milling, the company started its journey under Thomas’s able leadership. However, fate took an unexpected turn when Thomas passed away in 2002. In the face of adversity, the reins of Metal Source were taken up by Thomas’s son, Benjamin Gebhart. Under his leadership, Metal Source underwent a transformative shift in 2003, pivoting towards the aluminum recycling industry—a move that would lay the foundation for the company’s future success.

By 2006, Metal Source had outgrown its initial location, prompting a strategic relocation to its present site on Wabash Street in Wabash, Indiana. The company’s relentless pursuit of excellence led to substantial expansion in 2011, tripling the size of its facility and enabling it to diversify its product lines. Aside from its flagship location in Wabash, today Metal Source is also located in Peru, Marion, Huntington, Decatur, Bedford and Mitchell, Indiana.

In 2014, Gebhart Holdings emerged as the parent company to Metal Source. This transformation was born out of the realization that diversification was crucial, especially in the volatile scrap recycling industry. Under the leadership of CEO Ben Gebhart, the Gebhart family set out to build a robust portfolio of businesses.

The year 2016 was a pivotal one for Gebhart Holdings, with Ben Gebhart spearheading a series of initiatives. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive logistics solution, Wabash Trucking was established, quickly growing to boast a fleet of over 50 trucks. Ben’s frustration with the immediate availability of steel products led to the birth of Wabash Steel Supply, a steel and industrial supply company that addresses industry needs with efficiency and reliability.

Today, Gebhart Holdings proudly stands as the parent company to a diverse family of enterprises, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Wabash’s business community. From Metal Source to Wabash Trucking, Wabash Steel Supply, Wabash Motor Company, Splash and Dash Car Wash, and Market Street Grill, the Gebhart family’s legacy continues to thrive.

Introducing The Ivy Room, Gebhart Holdings’ Newest Addition

Located above Market Street Grill in Downtown Wabash, Indiana, The Ivy Room is an upscale private event venue. Freshly renovated by Gebhart Holdings, this space made its public debut in the fall of 2023. The Ivy Room can accommodate up to 190 guests and is perfect to book for events such as Christmas parties, wedding receptions, birthday parties, retirement parties, reunions, board meetings and more.

Parties will have access to A/V equipment including 3, 85-inch Samsung HDTV’s, 110-inch projector screen, and a state-of-the-art Klipsch surround sound speaker system, three balconies that include a table for 4 each, a fully customizable layout and a customizable menu to fit your parties’ needs. 

The Ivy Room does not charge a room rental fee, but instead offers three different tiers of food options (bronze, silver, and gold) for both lunch and dinner, as well as an appetizer and dessert menu. (Please note that there is a guest minimum to book The Ivy Room. The minimum for lunch is 15 guests and the minimum for dinner is 25 guests.) Room menus are available on msgrill.com under ‘private events’. The menus can be used as a guide, but if your party would like something not on these menus, Market Street Grill will do their best to accommodate.

Event inquiries can be submitted online or by calling the restaurant at (260) 563-7779.

With over 350 employees, Gebhart Holdings remains committed to its growth trajectory. As Gebhart Holdings continues to evolve and expand, it stands as a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Wabash, Indiana—a spirit that refuses to be bound by limitations and instead thrives on the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

A special thank you to Gebhart Holdings for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.