Samuelson Insurance Agency celebrates 100 years serving the local community and beyond
- By: Claire Kenney
- Last Updated: January 27, 2026
Established in 1926, Samuelson Insurance Agency will celebrate 100 years in business this year. At ten decades old, Samuelson is one of Porter County’s oldest independent insurance agencies. With locations in Portage and Griffith, the agency serves clients throughout Northwest Indiana and is licensed in Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan.
“A hundred years doesn’t happen by accident or because of any one person,” said Samuelson President, James Hazzard. “It happens because of generations of people who showed up, did the work, took care of the community, and built the legacy.”
From its earliest days, Samuelson has been family-owned and community-rooted. Samuelson specializes in both personal and commercial insurance, offering home, auto, umbrella, life, contractor, trucking, municipal, educational, farm, and general business insurance. Beyond traditional coverage placements, the agency provides claims guidance, education, and support for municipal, educational, commercial, nonprofit, and residential clients who need a partner rather than just a policy.
The agency’s mission has always been straightforward: serve people well and support the community that supports you.
“I’m proud to stand on a foundation built by people like William Samuelson, Evelyn (Samuelson) Hamstrom, Charles Lorenz, Ken Lorenz – and every single employee who has been a part of Samuelson Insurance over the years,” said Hazzard. “Portage and Northwest Indiana have taken care of Samuelson Insurance for 100 years, and for that, we’re forever thankful. We intend to keep taking care of them, in return.”
As Samuelson enters its second century, the leadership philosophy remains rooted in humility, adaptability, and service.
“From our humble beginnings in 1926, 100 years later we are still growing and adapting,” said Hazzard. “We’re continuing the legacy and doing so in a way we feel would make the previous Samuelson generations proud.”
“Our philosophy is simple – take care of your people, take care of your clients, be kind, and invest in your community. The rest will take care of itself,” he added.
To request a quote or learn more about Samuelson Insurance, visit samuelsonagency.com, call 219-762-3702, or email info@samuelsonagency.com