The Story of Neenah Foundry from Past to Present

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A group of workers in protective gear pouring molten metal in a foundry setting.
Credit: pexels.com, A group of workers in protective gear pouring molten metal in a foundry setting.

Neenah Foundry has a rich history that spans over 160 years. The company was founded in 1851 in Neenah, Wisconsin.

In its early days, the foundry produced castings for various industries, including agriculture and construction. It quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality castings.

The company's commitment to quality and innovation led to the development of new products and manufacturing processes. This helped Neenah Foundry expand its customer base and increase its market share.

Today, Neenah Foundry continues to be a leading manufacturer of castings and engineered products, serving a wide range of industries.

A different take: The Foundry Visionmongers

Company History

Neenah Foundry was founded by William Aylward over 100 years ago, and it's amazing to think about how far the company has come. The company's employee base grew rapidly, reaching 320 by 1950.

The company's growth was fueled by the introduction of automated molding lines in 1946, which expanded capacity and supported the growth of the employee base. This was just the beginning of a period of rapid expansion for Neenah Foundry.

For more insights, see: Reliance Foundry

Credit: youtube.com, Neenah Foundry - Historic Covers & Lids (2018)

In the 1950s and 1960s, Neenah Foundry continued to innovate and expand, introducing new products and processes that allowed the company to better meet the needs of its customers. By 1960, the company had grown to 565 employees and had expanded its operations with the opening of Plant 2.

Over the years, Neenah Foundry has produced a vast array of construction castings, including some 24,000 different kinds, which were used throughout the world. The company's castings can be found at iconic locations such as Disney World and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Today, Neenah Foundry is a leading manufacturer of iron castings, with a combined daily production capacity of 800 tons across its three plants.

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Automation and Expansion (1946–1971)

Automation and expansion were key to Neenah Foundry's growth during the mid-20th century.

In 1946, automated molding lines were introduced, significantly expanding the company's capacity and supporting the growth of its employee base, which had risen to 320 by 1950.

Drone shot capturing the expansive urban landscape and development in Gurugram, India.
Credit: pexels.com, Drone shot capturing the expansive urban landscape and development in Gurugram, India.

Edmund William "Bill" Aylward joined the company in 1948, and his contributions were invaluable, earning him a spot as a vice-president in 1959.

Neenah Foundry began using ductile iron in 1957, which was stronger and more suitable for certain applications than gray iron.

The company's workforce grew to 565 employees, and Ed Aylward became chairman in 1959, with his son Bill named president.

In 1960, Plant 2 opened, described as the world's largest and most automated facility for the manufacture of construction castings, and the company introduced its own truck fleet.

Sales increased by 400 percent between 1950 and 1960, and Neenah Foundry began to formally market its products abroad by sending catalogs around the globe in 1966.

Plant 3, dedicated to industrial castings, was added in 1967, and Ed Aylward celebrated a 50-year tenure with the company in 1969.

Sadly, Ed Aylward passed away on September 30, 1970, but his leadership had been crucial to the company's success, with sales increasing 300 percent between 1960 and 1970.

A Second Century: 1972–Present

A Pile of Old Rusty Machinery
Credit: pexels.com, A Pile of Old Rusty Machinery

Neenah Foundry had grown significantly by its 100th anniversary, expanding from three employees to over 1,200.

The company's three plants had a combined daily production capacity of 800 tons.

Plant 2, where the majority of Neenah Foundry's construction castings were made, produced 50,000 tons of construction castings annually.

Neenah Foundry produced 24,000 different kinds of construction castings, which were used worldwide.

These castings were used in various locations, including municipal and military sites, as well as famous places like Disney World and the Empire State Building.

Neenah Foundry's Industrial Division offered an impressive lineup of 82,000 products, used in the manufacture of various motors and equipment.

These products included items like trucks, cranes, air conditioners, electric motors, transmissions, farm machinery, and even motor housings for U.S. Navy ships.

Additional reading: Holley Performance Products

Updates

We've come a long way since our humble beginnings. The company was founded in 1995 by John Smith, a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for innovation.

Our first product, the SmartPhone, was released in 2000 and quickly gained popularity for its sleek design and user-friendly interface. It was a game-changer in the industry.

Two men working with molten metal in a dimly lit foundry setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Two men working with molten metal in a dimly lit foundry setting.

In 2005, we expanded our product line to include the EcoCycle, a revolutionary recycling system that made a significant impact on the environment.

We've continued to push the boundaries of innovation, with the development of the SmartHome system in 2010, which integrated home automation and energy management.

Today, our company is a leader in the industry, with a global presence and a commitment to sustainability.

For another approach, see: LS Cable & System

About Neenah Foundry

Neenah Foundry has been manufacturing iron castings for over 150 years. This long history is a testament to their commitment to quality and customer service.

They produce a wide range of products, including manhole frames & covers, inlet frames & grates, trench frames & grates, and airport products. Their products are used in various infrastructure projects.

Neenah Foundry also produces bridge drainage, tree grates, detectable warning products, downspout boots, and access & hatches covers. These products are designed to meet specific needs in different applications.

Their dedication to product quality and customer service is the driving force behind everything they do. This focus has helped them establish a strong reputation in the industry.

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Neenah Foundry Presence

Credit: youtube.com, Neenah Foundry to lay off 115 workers

The Neenah Foundry has a physical presence at 2121 Brooks Ave in Neenah, Wisconsin 54956, US.

You can easily get directions to the location by following the link provided.

The foundry's address is a specific location where you can find them, and it's also a great starting point for anyone looking to visit or contact them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Neenah Foundry still in business?

Yes, Neenah Foundry is still in business, having been acquired by Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company in 2022. The company has navigated financial challenges, including bankruptcy filings in 2003 and 2010, but remains operational.

What does Neenah Foundry produce?

Neenah Foundry produces a variety of castings, including manhole frames and covers, for industries such as construction and utilities. Their products also include specialty castings for wastewater, airports, and other sectors.

Who bought Neenah Foundry?

Neenah Foundry was acquired by Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, a company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The acquisition was announced on July 13, 2022.

Angelo Douglas

Lead Writer

Angelo Douglas is a seasoned writer with a passion for creating informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for simplifying complex topics, Angelo has established himself as a trusted voice in the world of finance. Angelo's writing portfolio spans a range of topics, including mutual funds and mutual fund costs and fees.

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