By Cathleen Twardzik

In 1910, Jacob Nissenbaum opened his business, delivering goods around Somerville with a horse and cart.

On Sunday,  Nissenbaum Auto Parts celebrates 100 years in business with a block party on Columbia Street.

Customers are the excited about the company’s milestone because “We only do this every 100 years,” said Allen Nissenbaum.

Next, his son, Joseph, entered the company in 1929, and he sold the carts and horses for trucks. Simultaneously, the business was expanded, by the purchase of cars for “scrap value.”

In 1937, Jacob retired.  That year, also marked Joseph Nissenbaum’s passing. Max Nissenbaum, Joseph’s son, became the owner and manager.

Eventually, additional land was bought, and the property was enlarged to span one acre.  Nissenbaum’s began to sell car and truck parts in 1955.

In the late 1960s, the fourth generation, Joseph and Allen, brought their talent to the company. The fifth generation also contributes to running the business today.

Finally, in 1976, 2,600 square feet were added to the building, in which parts are dismantled and warehoused.  Now, available parts “racked,” and “inventoried” for customers.

At present, Nissenbaum’s is predominately involved with older salvage. Further, five employees “dismantle” each vehicle.

“It’s because of all the people in Somerville that we could stay open 100 years,” Allen Nissenbaum said. “We look forward to being here for 100 more years.”