WHO WE ARE

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 Manufacturing Co., where his first project was the Dane County..Read More

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 millwork for the Capitol’s east wing and heating plant. Findorff..Read More

Findorff strived to stay competitive as the construction industry evolved with new technology and building techniques. As such, John H. Findorff himself supervised the installation of a very iconic piece to the State’s Capitol, and in turn Madison’s skyline. In 1914, John and his tradesmen hoisted a three-ton statue nearly..Read More

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 April 1923, Findorff secured several contracts further strengthening our roots..Read More

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 at Oscar Mayer. Shortly afterwards, Findorff bought a concrete pump..Read More

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 buildings and continued with Findorff building warehouse superstructures, installing sheathing,..Read More

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 1950s experiencing the first wave of baby boomers. Kicking off..Read More

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 be heavily involved in the construction of various housing facilities..Read More

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 as the Glass Bank and its construction value would have..Read More

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 of the Company’s most notable projects was the Truax Campus..Read More

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 landmark project of the decade, if not the century, was..Read More

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 included families of two or even three generations. All of..Read More

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 Madison, the Company continued to focus on notable projects such..Read More