WHO WE ARE
Findorff’s breadth of knowledge has led us to become one of the Midwest’s most trusted builders. From minor renovations to program management of the most sophisticated and complex facilities, Findorff is committed to bringing the highest level of service and craftsmanship to every project we build. Check out our history below.
- 1890's
- 1900's
- 1910's
- 1920's
- 1930's
- 1940's
- 1950's
- 1960's
- 1970's
- 1980's
- 1990's
- 2000's
- 2010's
The Beginning
Findorff’s history dates back to the turn of the 19th century, starting with the Company’s founder, John H. Findorff. Originally from Germany, John entered the construction industry as a young carpenter for J.H. Starck & Co. (Starck), later named Starck..Read More
The Phoenix of Its Time
At the start of the twentieth century, Findorff continued to grow and shape Madison. Unfortunately, Findorff also suffered from a disaster. In May 1909, an intense fire swept through Findorff’s planing mill and everything was lost, including the nearly completed..Read More
The Roaring Twenties
Marking the growth of the industrial east side and our relationship with Madison Architect Frank Riley, Findorff kicked off the decade building East High School in the Collegiate Gothic style and later built several additions for this registered landmark. In..Read More
Working Through the Great Depression
Despite struggling times in America during the Great Depression, Findorff still persevered in its growth as an established contractor. As such, the Company made two important additions to its equipment inventory. In 1936, Findorff bought its first crane for construction..Read More
Post-War Efforts
Findorff’s contribution to the war effort was impressive. In 1942, the Company helped build the sprawling Badger Ordnance Plant among the cornfields nestled at the base of Baraboo’s bluffs. The project started with a contract to pour foundations for 85..Read More
The Education Forefront
During this time in history, the United States more than doubled its Gross National Product, much due to government spending. Specifically, capital was placed into the construction of many educational institutions, of which Findorff saw the results of, with the..Read More
Not a Time for Rest
Harold Hastings, a 30-year employee, was named Findorff’s third President and succeeded Milton Findorff. It was the first time that a member of the Findorff family did not hold a leadership position. During the 1960s, the Company also continued to..Read More
Companies Don’t Build. People Build.
Findorff’s construction efforts throughout Madison continued to shape the area surrounding the Capitol Square. The Company served as the largest contractor for structural work on the $12 million First Wisconsin Bank building, which opened in 1974. Today it is known..Read More
A New Era
During the 1980s, construction placed a greater reliance on negotiated contracts as opposed to low-cost bids experienced from the previous decade. That being said, Findorff continued its historical trend of milestone projects and successful growth. From the community’s standpoint, one..Read More
Impressive Achievements & Iconic Projects
During this decade, Findorff commemorated its 100th year in successful operations. As a leading contractor throughout Wisconsin, its legacy was exemplified by the notable work of its skilled employees and strategic direction of its thoughtful leaders. However, the Company’s most..Read More
A New Century
At the start of the 21st century, business was steadily growing for Findorff with various high-profile projects in both Madison and Milwaukee. Much of the Company’s recent successes would not have been possible without its long-time employees, some of which..Read More
125+ Years of Quality
In Milwaukee, Findorff continued to enhance the City’s skyline. From 2011 to 2012, construction took place on The Moderne. This signature development in the Park East Corridor is a world-class, 30-story high rise epitomizing the sophistication of downtown living. In..Read More
LEADERSHIP
I competed against Olympian Mark Spitz in a Big Ten dual swimming meet at Indiana University (as National Champs, their meets were on TV!). I finished in second place… he was already toweling off…
I’m often accused of having too many hobbies. I enjoy woodworking and home remodeling, and my family and I built a tiny house on property in Northern, Wisc.