Marion Family Sells Hiller Fuels After a Run That Started in the 1800s

Hiller Fuels in Marion is changing hands after a run that began in 1887. The family-owned heating oil company is selling to a new local business called Falmouth Energy, and owner Christine Hiller said the timing just feels right. "Since 1887. Almost 140 years," she said.

From Coal Trucks to Heating Oil

Before it was a fuel company, Hiller sold coal. Pictured below is the old Hiller truck used to haul the coal around Marion. Judging from the body and tires, the photo was likely taken on or around 1910. Just as the Hiller Family once pivoted when coal was replaced by fuel, they are seeing a change in energy once again.

Christine readily admitted that it's time to retire and that she wants the freedom to travel and enjoy life. While selling a business that has stayed in the Hiller family this long is sentimental and a little sad, she said the Hiller legacy will live on.

Courtesy Hiller Fuels

Will Hiller Fuels Keep Its Name?

Yes. The new owner is not changing the name of the company, so it will stay Hiller Fuels. The family wanted to sell to a small, family-owned local company rather than a big oil company, even though some were interested.

"Sometimes when you deal with a bigger heating oil company you're a number, you're not a person," Christine said. Hiller knows its customers personally, to the point that Christine knows account numbers and cleaning dates right off the top of her head. She knows voices on the phone before a caller even says their name.

Will Customers Still Get That Homey Feel?

Christine hopes so. Her daughter Braly is staying on, and the new team member taking over her spot will build those relationships with time. Jay Hiller will still run the car dealership on Route 6.

When Does the Sale Become Official?

The sale became official three weeks ago, on the 17th of September, but Christine is still making appearances at the office. "I'm not doing so great on the retirement part of this, yet," she joked. Christine is working Tuesdays and Thursdays while Braly coaches college and high school hockey. Once the new staff is comfortable, Christine will officially leave the building.