Raleigh, NC
info@mcintoshpainting.com
about mcintosh painters
A Legacy of Hard Work, Service, and Craftsmanship
At McIntosh Painting, our work is rooted in a tradition that stretches back more than 170 years.
While the company itself is modern, the values behind it have been shaped by generations of family business ownership and hands-on craftsmanship passed down through the McIntosh lineage. From a small neighborhood general store in Pennsylvania in the mid-1800s to the self-reliant family traditions that shaped owner David Berry Jr., the McIntosh story has always centered on one simple principle: serve the people and do good work.
That spirit of hard work, resourcefulness, and pride in craftsmanship continues today in every home we paint throughout the Raleigh area.
our history
The McIntosh Clan: From Scotland to America
The McIntosh family story begins in the mid-1800s when Finley and Anna McIntosh immigrated from Scotland to America, eventually settling in the borough of Turtle Creek near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. There, the family operated a neighborhood general store that sold groceries, tools, and everyday supplies to the local community.
During this time, it was uncommon to hire outside help. Families and neighbors often worked together to maintain homes and businesses. This spirit of self-reliance and community cooperation became a defining part of the McIntosh family culture and remains a guiding influence today.
A Family Business in Early Pennsylvania
In the late 1800s, Finley’s daughter Grace McIntosh married Pennsylvania native Crist Chalmers Johnston. After learning about the construction of Westmoreland County’s first public swimming pool, the couple saw an opportunity to expand the family’s tradition of neighborhood business.
They relocated approximately 35 miles east by train and opened a small general sundries store across from the new public pool. Their idea was simple: visitors would inevitably forget important items when traveling to the pool.
They stocked bathing suits, goggles, towels, sunscreen, and other essentials—betting most of their savings on the idea that convenience would matter.
They were right.
The Blue Lantern
The business became known as The Blue Lantern, operating from the first floor of an 1886 summer cottage. Grace and Crist lived above the shop, cooking outdoors or eating at a nearby hotel and sleeping in the upstairs quarters.
As the store succeeded, they expanded the cottage over time, adding more living space, sleeping areas, a kitchen, and eventually an indoor bathroom.
In 1909, Grace and Crist welcomed their daughter Anna Mae Johnston, who would later marry Robert Bethel Berry, the grandfather of McIntosh Painting owner David Berry Jr.
Over the decades, transportation changes reshaped the region. As automobiles became more common, visitors no longer relied on trains to reach recreational areas. The nearby hotel closed, the public pool eventually became private, and the Blue Lantern store closed its doors.
The cottage, however, remained in the family — and still does today.
From Pittsburgh to Raleigh
In the late 1940s, Robert and Anna Berry relocated south to rural Raleigh, North Carolina, settling in the Millbrook area, which at the time was considered far outside the city.
They raised three children there — David Sr., Crist, and Johnny — in what was then a small community with its own post office, fire department, and school district.
In the mid-1980s, David Berry Jr. was born in Wake Forest, North Carolina. After growing up in the region and spending time living in Raleigh and Wilmington during college, he eventually returned to Raleigh to build his career.
Testimonials
Hear From Our Happy Clients
sheryl A.
Homeowner, Raleigh
We have worked with David for many years and are continually impressed by his professionalism, commitment to his work, and dedication to customer satisfaction. I would highly recommend partnering with David for any of your needs!
danielle P.
Homeowner, Raleigh
David is absolutely wonderful to work with! Our experience has always been positive on both a professional and personal level. He is meticulous about every detail, delivers on time and on budget, and genuinely cares about his customers.
ryan m.
Homeowner, Wendell
David is an amazing person all around but most of all knows how to treat his customers. He has integrity and it shows in how he conducts business. I’ve done business with him for years and will continue to do so. I can strongly recommend!!