Gillen History

Innovation Barges In

Ironically, the history of a Great Lakes innovator in marine and foundation construction can be traced back to a simple, low-tech wooden barge.
The barge belonged to Edward E. Gillen, who received it from his New Orleans ship-captain father along with an invitation to go out and make his fortune. Opportunities led him to venture up the Mississippi to Southeastern Wisconsin, where he established the tradition that still distinguishes our company today: a willingness to pioneer new construction ideas.

Construction Milestones

Gillen's innovation began in the construction of stone breakwaters, where he was one of the first to use conveyor boats for stone delivery. As the port city of Milwaukee began transforming its swampy waterfront into a business district, Gillen went ashore to become a leading driver of the timber piles on which the downtown was built.

Our Twin Traditions

Gillen's personal interests were an interesting paradox, with an uncommonly equal emphasis on the future and the past. He was far ahead of his industry peers in adopting new construction techniques and equipment, a tradition that still continues at Gillen Company to this day.
On the other hand, Mr. Gillen valued history, keeping meticulous records on company projects stretching back to the turn of the century. Today, this invaluable (and ever-growing) archive on soils, grades and past projects allows us to quote more accurately, and to avoid unforeseen pitfalls once a job begins.

The Legacy Continues

The spirit kindled by Edward E. Gillen definitely didn’t fade when he died in 1951. It’s still alive today, guiding the company that has become a trusted leader in deep foundation and marine construction work all across Lake Michigan’s southeastern shore.
When Mr. Gillen retired, he wisely chose to pass the company on to Andy Jackson, his right-hand assistant since the early 1930s. Jackson built on the Gillen reputation with new ideas of his own before passing the reins to his son Gary Jackson in 1980. Gary still owns the company today, and remains dedicated to continuing the heritage well into the future.
Today’s Gillen reputation for quality spreads across three separate centuries. With the help of our valued clients, we’re eagerly expecting to make it four.