This footage reflects the era our company was born in, a time of grit, determination, and community. From those early days to today, our commitment to hard work and reliability has never changed.
Our Family's Tradition Since 1919
A Legacy Built on Family
Long before hydraulic cranes transformed modern construction, the Hawthorne family was already helping build Philadelphia. What began with horse-drawn wagons evolved through excavation, demolition, and heavy hauling before becoming the crane rental company trusted across the Mid-Atlantic today. More than a century later, the same family values continue to guide every lift.
Built On Hard Work. Carried Forward By Every Generation.
A STORY MORE THAN 100 YEARS IN THE MAKING
From Horse-Drawn Wagons To Modern Crane Rentals
OUR JOURNEY THROUGH THE YEARS
1919
Humble Beginnings
Robert Hawthorne began hauling coal, ash, and ice with horse-drawn wagons, laying the foundation for the family business that was formally established in 1919.
Growth
Adapting With Philadelphia
As Philadelphia grew, so did Hawthorne. Horse-drawn wagons gave way to trucks, and excavation expanded into demolition while the family's work ethic remained unchanged.
Evolution
From Demolition To Crane Work
Years of moving heavy materials naturally led to crane work. That evolution transformed Hawthorne into the crane rental company trusted throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Today
Still Family Owned
More than a century later, the Hawthorne family continues serving customers with the same commitment to safety, reliability, and honest service.
Generations in photos
Built On Hard Work. Carried Forward By Every Generation.
A COMMITMENT THAT HASN'T CHANGED
From the earliest days of hauling and excavation to today's modern crane services, our foundation has remained the same: do the job right, treat people with respect, and stand behind our work—every time.
Family
Four generations of experience continue guiding every lift we make.
Integrity
Doing what’s right has always been the foundation of our business.
Safety
Modern safety practices built on more than a century of experience.
Reliability
Generations of dependable service have earned the trust of our customers.
READY TO BECOME PART OF THE NEXT CHAPTER?
Whether you’re planning tomorrow’s lift or the next major project, we’d be honored to earn your trust just as generations of customers have since 1919.