From Insurer of Local Farmers to International Carrier
In 1848, a small group of hard-working farmers joined together to form Ohio Farmer’s Insurance Company to protect their property. A lot has changed since then, including our name, but one thing remains the same — our commitment to serving our customers and communities with integrity, trust, knowledge, respect, and stewardship.
Today, Westfield is a leading provider of personal, commercial, and specialty insurance with international presence.
Our people are the driving force behind our success — seizing new opportunities, nurturing relationships, and propelling Westfield forward. By embracing change and one another, the Westfield team has made a positive difference in the lives of our customers, agents, and the communities in which we do business.
We’re Proud to Work With Independent Agents
The independent agency network has played an integral role in Westfield’s journey and success. But it wasn’t by happenstance. For nearly two centuries, the power of our relationships with independent agencies helped shape Westfield into the company that we are today.
Westfield’s Timeline
Our journey began with the simple goal of finding a better way to insure the property of local Ohio farmers. From these humble beginnings, we’ve risen to international acclaim. View our timeline to see how Westfield has grown from the grassroots of Ohio to a global brand.
1847 – Our founders gather to find a better way to protect their properties, community, and livelihoods from the threat and devastation of fire.
1848 – On February 8, 1848, the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Medina County was born.
1862 – Company changes name to Ohio Farmers Insurance Company.
1877 – We expand into Indiana, our first state expansion.
1879 – The Old Man on the Fence sculpture is unveiled, serving as our trademark until 1971.
1881 – New home office opens.
1910 – We acquire Morton Hotel and rename it Westfield Inn.
1929 – Company forms Ohio Farmers Indemnity Company.
1937 – The country club and golf course are established.
1971 – We adopt the brand name Westfield Companies.
1984 – Wespak is launched, simplifying insurance by combining home and auto coverage into one policy.
2001 – Westfield Bank is chartered.
2005 – The Westfield Insurance Foundation is established to support areas of disaster recovery, family stability, and safety.
2017 – Westfield begins a workplace transformation and brand refresh — elevating the way we deliver peace of mind and financial stability.
2018 – 1848 Ventures is launched.
2023 – Westfield Specialty is established in 2021 and two years later acquires Lloyd’s of London Syndicate 1200 — taking the Company global.
Storied Past and Bright Future
In 2023, we celebrated our 175th anniversary. We’ve accomplished a lot over the years and weathered many storms, including wars, depressions, recessions, and a global pandemic that impacted nearly every industry worldwide. While there have been many notable achievements, we’re most proud of our enduring commitment to our customers, our agents, and the communities we serve.
Since 1848 we’ve been supporting people through life’s ups and downs. From assessing risks to pursuing new opportunities to recovering from the unexpected, we’ve been there. And we will continue to be there. We look forward to another 175 years of remaining true to the vision of the original founders.