Founded In Wisconsin - C.A. Lawton Company of De Pere, Wisconsin
- greenwoodphilip
- Oct 28
- 13 min read

De Pere, Wisconsin, evolved from an Indigenous homeland of the Menominee, Potawatomi, and Ho-Chunk into a prominent industrial center along the Fox River. In the nineteenth century, its strategic location attracted industrialists, leading to significant commercial growth. The city's identity was shaped by industrial development, family enterprises like The C.A. Lawton Company, and community resilience, which continues to influence its business landscape today.
The Historical Evolution of De Pere: From Native American Roots to Industrial Hub
De Pere, Wisconsin, located on the Fox River south of Green Bay, has a rich history beginning with Native American tribes like the Menominee, Potawatomi, and Ho-Chunk. French influence started in 1634 with Jean Nicolet, followed by Jesuit missionary Claude-Jean Allouez, who founded the St. Francis Xavier Mission in 1671. This mission was important for Indigenous communities and French traders. Modern development began in 1829 with William Dickinson's De Pere Manufacturing Company and advanced in 1836 with the Fox River Hydraulic Company, involving John Lawe and John P. Arndt. These developments laid the town's foundation, marked by the White Pillars Building, now the De Pere Historical Society Museum. De Pere became a village in 1857 and merged with West De Pere in 1890, boosting industrial growth in lumber, milling, and manufacturing.
Adaptability and Innovation: The Rise of Novelty Manufacturing Company
In 1879, Charles A. Lawton and his uncle, E.W. Arndt, founded the Novelty Manufacturing Company in De Pere, Wisconsin. Initially, they manufactured the "Bran Dresser," a milling device invented by Lawton's father. The company quickly broadened its operations to include pattern making, iron foundry work, machining, and engineering design, with a focus on machinery and components. Despite the economic challenges during the Depression of 1882–1885, the company prospered due to its innovative approach and community support. Based in a facility on the Fox River, the "Bran Dresser" garnered attention at the Miller’s National Convention in 1880, resulting in a significant increase in orders. However, the introduction of the Stevens Roller Mill process in 1881 rendered such machinery obsolete, prompting Lawton and Arndt to diversify into power transmission and machine repair. Their adaptability ensured ongoing success, enabling expansion, hiring, and securing a loan for a foundry expansion. By 1882, just before the national economy contracted, Novelty Manufacturing had established itself as a leading small industrial enterprise in De Pere. The company was recognized among the key mechanical shops in local newspapers and business directories, competing alongside smaller mills and blacksmith shops in Brown County.
The Railroad Boom and Bust: Catalyst for the 1882 Economic Recession
The recession following the prosperous years of 1879-1882 was driven by the speculative boom and subsequent bust of the American railroad industry. During the boom, railroad construction surged, but by 1882, mismanagement and declining profitability led to a sharp downturn. This downturn significantly impacted industries such as iron and steel, triggering an economic recession. Characterized by deflation, the period saw falling prices and wages, while output remained stable. The situation was more about financial distress and price contraction than a slowdown in production. The Panic of 1884 exacerbated the crisis, as the collapse of key financial institutions in New York revealed fraud and undermined investor confidence, resulting in a credit contraction as banks curtailed loans and investments. The crisis led to significant unemployment, with approximately one million people jobless and 5% of factories and mines closing completely. It exposed the vulnerabilities of the U.S. banking system, which lacked a central authority for emergency support. Lasting 38 months, this recession was one of the longest in U.S. history.
The Resilience and Evolution of The C.A. Lawton Company: From Financial Struggles to Industry Leadership
In 1886, the company faced financial difficulties due to a panic and the collapse of Jones Bank, which had extended them a loan. Charles A. Lawton restructured the business with assistance from local businessmen and eventually resolved all outstanding debts. A businessman acquired the company's title from Jones Bank for $4,000 and resold it to Charles Lawton, the company's owner, for a modest profit. The company was subsequently renamed The C.A. Lawton Co. and emerged as a leading supplier of mechanical power transmission machinery to Midwest manufacturers, a position it held for over a century. Following the reorganization, Lawton embarked on an independent business venture, renaming the company to The C.A. Lawton Company. By 1890, he had successfully settled all debts with local businessmen. In 1904, Charles Lawton and Edward Lauson established the Lauson-Lawton Company, initially achieving success with the Lawton-Lauson gasoline engine, which was crucial for powering generators and agricultural machinery in areas lacking electricity.
Innovation and Diversification: The First Generation (1904-1917)
Charles Augustine Lawton, the founder of The C.A. Lawton Company in De Pere, Wisconsin, was a distinguished leader renowned for integrating technical innovation with social responsibility and personal integrity. His optimistic and sociable demeanor, combined with a practical Yankee approach, earned him respect for his mechanical expertise and fairness. During the credit crisis of the 1880s, Lawton's honesty and strong relationships were pivotal in preserving his company, as local businessmen placed their trust in his character. His intellectual curiosity allowed market demand to steer production, leading to the manufacture of a diverse range of products. Lawton's management approach was hands-on, emphasizing craftsmanship and problem-solving, and served as a training ground for young machinists. He was willing to take risks but maintained fiscal conservatism, ensuring the company's longevity by avoiding overexpansion and focusing on steady reinvestment.
In 1904, Charles Lawton and Edward Lauson established the Lauson-Lawton Company, an independent manufacturing entity within the Lawton factory. Their significant achievement was the introduction of the Lawton-Lauson gasoline engine, known as the "Wisconsin" engine, in 1909. This innovation revolutionized rural farming by powering equipment in areas without electricity. Between 1908 and 1917, they produced fewer than 10,000 engines in 12 sizes, ranging from 1½ to 20 horsepower. After 1917, the company shifted its focus to light plants and water systems, becoming a major supplier of mechanical power transmission machinery in the Midwest, a legacy that has endured for over a century.
The Second Generation: Edward Lawton's Leadership (1917-1939)
In 1917, following the death of founder Charles Lawton, his son Edward and wife Elcey M. Lawton took on leadership roles, guiding the company into a period of growth and innovation. During the economic boom of the 1920s, The C.A. Lawton Company prospered, with the Lawton-Lauson Company continuing its production of air compressors and Charles Lawton II joining the management team. A collaboration with the Buhl Company further expanded their compressor manufacturing capabilities. In response to the rising demand for coal, Edward Lawton diversified into coal stokers in 1928, a venture that proved profitable until shifts in energy sources occurred. In 1937, during the Great Depression, Lawton transitioned to Rotor Stator presses and expanded into molding presses for rubber and plastics, establishing a foothold in the hydraulic press market.
Edward Lawton, who became president of The C.A. Lawton Company in 1917, was a pragmatic and empathetic leader, blending his father's innovative spirit with structured industrial management. Renowned for his business acumen, Edward concentrated on stable, scalable product lines, steering the company towards coal stokers and air compressors during the 1920s economic boom. His strategic conservatism prioritized markets with sustainable demand, avoiding speculative ventures. Despite economic challenges such as the Great Depression, Edward demonstrated loyalty to employees by accepting pay cuts to retain staff, fostering a culture of mutual trust. He valued open communication and shared sacrifice, ensuring the company's survival. As traditional products declined, Edward promoted innovation, leading to the development of V-belt sheaves and enhanced power transmission systems, revitalizing the company's competitive position. His leadership, characterized by innovation, responsibility, and loyalty, established C.A. Lawton as a major employer in De Pere and a cornerstone of community stability.
The Third Generation: Charles "Choppy" Lawton II (1939-1973)
By 1939, Edward Lawton transferred the presidency of The C.A. Lawton Company to his son, Charles A. "Choppy" Lawton II. Choppy quickly proved his competence by developing the Lawton Roll Wrapper, which significantly improved the efficiency of toilet paper roll wrapping and gained international recognition after World War II. During the war, the company contributed to national defense by producing ship propellers, submarine parts, and artillery shell banders. In the 1950s, Lawton diversified its offerings to include power transmission equipment and molding machines. The introduction of nylon tooth gears between 1967 and 1969 enhanced workplace safety by reducing noise. Choppy's tenure was characterized by innovation and a move towards engineering professionalism, particularly after a costly design error in 1970 prompted him to hire degreed engineers. He led the company through industrial transformation, postwar expansion, and an emphasis on engineering-focused professionalism until his unexpected passing in 1973. His management style combined technical curiosity with a modern perspective, fostering partnerships and embracing nontraditional collaborators.
Under his leadership, the company evolved from a family-run operation to a professional engineering enterprise, with a focus on consistency and precision. Known for his approachable leadership style, Choppy valued long-tenured employees and mentored young managers, blending his grandfather’s inventive spirit with his father’s empathy. By the 1960s and early 1970s, the company had achieved stability and respect as a regional industrial supplier. Choppy’s charismatic and technical leadership left a legacy of continuous improvement, ensuring a seamless transition to his sons, Randall W. Lawton and Charles A. Lawton III, who inherited a stronger company founded on his principles.
The Fourth Generation: Transition and Joint Ventures (1973-2006)
In 1973, following the unexpected passing of Charles Lawton II, the leadership of The C.A. Lawton Company was determined by a coin toss, resulting in Charles III assuming the role of president while Randall took charge of operations. That same year, the company collaborated with Rothe Foundry to modernize their facilities, focusing on enhancing safety and addressing environmental issues. Despite Rothe's bankruptcy in 1978, Lawton maintained its production activities. The establishment of Bay Engineered Castings (BEC) in 1978 was intended to reduce product liability risks, with Randall overseeing Lawton and Charles III serving as BEC's treasurer. Initial communication challenges impeded operations, but by 1983, Randall's strategic initiatives successfully improved BEC's quality and profitability. During the 1980s and 1990s, the company diversified its product offerings to cater to various industries. However, the rise of globalization and offshore manufacturing after 2001 led to financial challenges. In 2005, a surge in the waterworks industry created new opportunities, stabilizing the company financially and restoring its profitability.
Fifth-Generation Transition - Alex Lawton (2006 - Present)
In 2006, Alex Lawton assumed the role of fifth-generation president of The C.A. Lawton Company, continuing a 127-year family legacy in manufacturing. That year, the company executed a reverse merger with Bay Engineered Castings, effectively unifying separate corporate entities to enhance growth and customer service. Since 1978, BEC had served as Lawton's brand for commercial castings. This consolidation also represented familial unity, as Alex integrated divisions previously separated by his father and uncle. During the 2008 recession, the company avoided layoffs by implementing salary reductions and shorter workweeks. By 2016, they had embraced LEAN manufacturing and achieved ISO 9001:2015 compliance in 2018, along with ASME registration. In 2020, they attained ISO 14001 certification and Green Tier 2 status for sustainability. Under Alex's leadership, the company expanded by acquiring Temperform in 2019 and merging with other foundries to form The Lawton Standard Company, which operated six foundries by 2024. As CEO, Alex oversees five iron foundries, one steel foundry, and multiple distribution centers nationwide. The C.A. Lawton Company remains a fifth-generation family business, dedicated to honesty, care, continuous improvement, and success since 1879.
Specializing in Large-Scale Iron Castings for Diverse Industries
Today, C.A. Lawton specializes in large, complex gray and ductile iron castings ranging from 500 to 45,000 pounds. These components are essential for equipment in the construction, mining, agriculture, energy, waterworks, and heavy industrial machinery sectors. Under The Lawton Standard umbrella, the company enhances its offerings with a diverse range of specialized metal casting capabilities through its sister divisions. The historic De Pere, Wisconsin location of The C.A. Lawton Company serves as a hub for producing gray and ductile iron castings from 500 to 20,000 pounds, with capabilities extending to 30,000 pounds for low-volume orders. It accommodates casting dimensions up to 130" × 130" × 59" tall and provides advanced machining and finishing services, such as CNC 5-axis boring and vertical turning. The facility utilizes versatile materials and holds certifications under ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, as well as ASME and ABS standards. Its key products include large iron housings and components for OEMs across various industries, employing a no-bake furan sand process to ensure quality. In Minster, Ohio, C.A. Lawton’s second major site specializes in extra-large castings up to 45,000 pounds, featuring two 45-ton vertical induction furnaces. It offers comprehensive pattern making, engineering, and precision machining services for large industrial components.
Strategic Diversification and Operational Excellence in Metal Casting Industry
Lawton strategically diversifies its operations across essential end-user markets, including water and wastewater infrastructure with pump housings and valve bodies, mining and aggregate equipment with castings for crushers, energy and oil & gas with components for turbines, heavy equipment and construction with housings and machine frames, pulp and paper machinery with dryer frames, and transportation with ductile iron castings. By implementing a Lean manufacturing framework and a Managing for Daily Improvement (MDI) system, Lawton ensures efficient production and maintains high-quality standards. Each foundry utilizes digital 3D modeling and metal-flow simulation. Their engineering services encompass solid modeling, FEA analysis, Faro Arm CMM measurement systems, hydro and pressure testing to ASME standards, and compliance with environmental regulations under Wisconsin DNR’s Green Tier 2 program.
C.A. Lawton is a prominent provider of large-scale, precision-engineered gray and ductile iron castings essential to the North American industry. As part of The Lawton Standard network, the company caters to a wide range of alloy, size, and performance requirements, with production capabilities spanning from 500 to 45,000 pounds. With a strong foundation in metallurgical expertise, C.A. Lawton seamlessly integrates design and testing, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement. In 2025, as a fifth-generation foundry, Lawton upholds its 146-year tradition of engineering excellence, durability, and adaptability in advanced casting manufacturing. As a key subsidiary of The Lawton Standard Co., C.A. Lawton generates annual revenues between $25 million and $35 million, influenced by fiscal sources and market conditions. Its earnings are diversified across distinct product lines within its foundries located in De Pere, Wisconsin, and Minster, Ohio, both specializing in large gray and ductile iron castings.
Market Mix
Lawton's financial framework embodies The Lawton Standard Co.'s diversification strategy, which includes industrial iron castings (C.A. Lawton and Penn-Mar Castings), high-alloy steel castings (Temperform and Quality Electric Steel Castings), and the distribution of austempered ductile iron and Versa-Bar iron bars (AIA unit). This strategic integration facilitates a shared customer base while providing a variety of materials and scale options, thereby securing stable revenue streams amid volatile industrial markets.
Strategic Analysis of CA Lawton - The Hambrick Strategy Diamaond Framework
The Hambrick & Fredrickson Strategy Diamond provides a framework for analyzing the C.A. Lawton Company and its parent organization, The Lawton Standard Co., through five interconnected elements: Arenas, Vehicles, Differentiators, Staging, and Economic Logic. This model illustrates the company's strategic positioning within the U.S. metal casting industry, maintaining its 146-year legacy of family ownership and operational excellence.
Arenas – Where Lawton Competes
Lawton operates in the field of high-precision metal castings and value-added machining, serving the industrial, heavy equipment, energy, and waterworks sectors. The company’s foundries, located in De Pere, Wisconsin, and Minster, Ohio, specialize in producing gray and ductile iron castings with weights ranging from 500 to 45,000 pounds.
The parent company, The Lawton Standard Co., enhances Lawton's capabilities through a network of seven specialized foundries:
C.A. Lawton (WI, OH) – Gray and ductile iron castings
Temperform (MI) – High-alloy and heat-resistant steel castings
Penn-Mar Castings (PA) – Mid-size iron and ductile iron castings
Northern Iron (MN) and Anniston (AL) – Smaller-scale iron castings
Quality Electric Steel Castings (TX) – Specialty steel and defense markets
This strategic positioning provides Lawton with geographical reach and material diversification across the Midwest, South, and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Vehicles – How Lawton Expands and Delivers
Lawton's growth strategy centers on strategic mergers and acquisitions, significantly enhancing its market presence and operational capabilities. Under CEO Alex Lawton's leadership since 2019, the company has transformed from a traditional foundry into a multi-foundry integrated platform through acquisitions like Temperform, Damascus Steel, Penn-Mar Castings, and Northern Iron. These moves have expanded Lawton's technological capabilities and diversified its product offerings. Internally, Lawton uses integration mechanisms, such as shared engineering support, to harmonize operations and ensure consistent application of best practices, improving product quality and reducing lead times. The company adheres to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certifications, reinforcing its commitment to quality and sustainability. Additionally, the Foundry Capability Tool helps customers find the best facility for their needs, supporting Lawton's comprehensive single-point sourcing solution for OEMs. This combination of strategic acquisitions and internal integration has positioned Lawton as an industry leader and adaptable organization.
Differentiators – How Lawton Wins
Lawton sets itself apart through its engineering excellence, a culture rooted in legacy, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. Their technical proficiency is demonstrated by their investments in digital simulation, pattern engineering, FEA modeling, and lean production systems. This expertise enables them to produce complex, high-tolerance castings that surpass those of lower-cost overseas competitors. The Lawton Standard network provides integrated capabilities, offering a fully vertically integrated system for pattern making, casting, machining, testing, and assembly, thereby minimizing supply chain friction. As a pioneer in green manufacturing, C.A. Lawton was the first foundry in Wisconsin to achieve Green Tier 2 certification, underscoring their exceptional environmental performance. Family ownership ensures cultural consistency, promoting a customer-focused ethos and a "people-first" management culture, distinguishing them from corporate conglomerates. These factors collectively sustain Lawton's esteemed reputation in custom-engineered, large-scale castings, where precision and trust are of utmost importance.
Staging – Sequence and Speed of Strategy Implementation
Lawton's growth has been meticulously managed through a phased integration strategy, aimed at progressively enhancing capabilities:
Phase 1 (2019–2020): The establishment of Lawton Standard brought together C.A. Lawton Co. and Temperform, merging expertise in iron and steel casting.
Phase 2 (2020–2021): The acquisitions of Damascus Steel and Penn-Mar Castings expanded the company's regional footprint and metallurgical diversity.
Phase 3 (2022–2023): The expansion included Northern Iron (MN) and Quality Electric Steel (TX), enhancing national reach.
Phase 4 (2024–2025): This phase focused on consolidation with standardized management, shared systems, and Lean/MDI methodologies, while maintaining the unique identities of local foundries.
Economic Logic – Lawton’s Profit Model
Lawton's economic strategy prioritizes specialization-driven value and efficiency over competing on volume-based costs. Their profitability model is centered on four key factors:
Premium Margins on Complex Castings: Lawton specializes in producing low-volume, high-complexity components for OEMs in regulated industries, enabling premium pricing compared to mass-production competitors.
Operational Synergy: Shared resources, such as procurement and engineering across Lawton Standard's foundries, contribute to reduced overhead costs and improved returns on capital investments.
Sustainability and Compliance Leadership: Certifications like ISO and ASME serve as strategic tools to attract clients seeking verifiable environmental and quality credentials, supporting higher service-based margins.
Customer Retention via Capability Integration: An integrated service chain minimizes transactional risks and fosters multi-year contracts, ensuring stable and recurring revenue.
C.A. Lawton’s strategic diamond illustrates a modern industrial renaissance model—revitalizing legacy manufacturing through precision engineering, vertical integration, and conscious consolidation. Unlike commodity foundries competing on cost, Lawton differentiates through heritage, innovation, and environmental stewardship, ensuring long-term competitiveness and continuity for its fifth generation of leadership.
Closing
Situated along the Fox River, the city of De Pere, Wisconsin, has undergone significant transformation. It has welcomed waves of settlers, supported iconic family businesses such as The C.A. Lawton Company, and navigated both economic booms and challenges. Today, De Pere is a vibrant community that honors its rich cultural heritage and legacy of innovation, seamlessly integrating historic landmarks, thriving industries, and a resilient community spirit. After 135 years, the Lawton Company has stood the test of time and continues to survive, adapt and thrive to the changing environment.
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