But, he must have known something, because 30 years later Allerdice Building Supply not only survived that first year, it flourished. Along with his wife, Sue, Wally went on to start five spin-off businesses over the years—Allerdice Commercial Doors & Windows, Allerdice Glass & Mirror, Allerdice Milton, Allerdice Malta and Allerdice Rental, which he co-owns with two of his employees. He still has the welding business and a crane operation, as well as the gift shop and he is considering a division of Allerdice for cabinets. Wally Allerdice, a quiet and unassuming man, was born and raised in Saratoga Springs and came from a line of successful and savvy businessmen and women. His great grandfather came to the area from Scotland and settled in Milton, where William W. Allerdice, his grandfather, was born. At five, William and his family moved to Saratoga Springs. At 19, he began a business dealing in hides, wool and tallow—the Allerdice Hide & Tallow Company, which was located directly behind where City Hall stands today. William was a man on a mission at the turn of the century. A successful business owner, he was also active on the political scene and in the community. In July 1910, he was named Park Commissioner and was responsible for negotiating not only the purchase of
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Congress Spring Park for public use, but Richard Canfield’s clubhouse, touted as “the most famous in America, and among the most beautiful in the world,” and presently known as Canfield Casino. The property, valued at the time to be worth upwards of $750,000, was purchased for a mere $150,000. William was credited with negotiating the deal with Canfield, making clear to the high-society gambler that the purchase of the property was necessary if the plans for a public park for all to enjoy were to be successful. William travelled to New York City to meet with Canfield and explained to the businessman that all Saratoga had to spend for the purchase was $150,000. While he considered the sale “for some time,” Canfield finally agreed. “I would dispose of the property to no individual for that price,” Canfield is quoted in a local newspaper as saying at the time. “But Saratogians and I have always been friends. In view of my money investment there, the price is small, but I am glad to do my part toward aiding Saratogians in their plans for the future.” Allerdice’s grandfather would also eventually go on to have East Congress Street closed; setting in motion what would become Congress Park as we know it today.
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