A legacy built one step at a time.
Aikens Group History
Based in Winchester, VA, the Aikens Group is a premier development firm in the Blue Ridge Shenandoah Valley. The Aikens Group serves the Interstate 81 and Interstate 66 corridors from Martinsburg, WV to Woodstock, VA. The company is centrally located to allow the business to grow and expand with the needs of the region. Committed to providing a standard of excellence resulting in an unsurpassed level of service the Aikens Group has a tradition to live up to.Major Company Milestones
1931
In 1931 near the end of the depression, Harry W. Aikens started Aikens Construction working in the woolen mills during the day and building houses at night. His passion was development and entrepreneurship.
1955
In 1955 Harry Aikens built his first commercial property on Valley Avenue in Winchester, VA and the Aikens Group was established. Throughout the years he continued to develop properties he would own and manage while continuing to operate Aikens Construction.
1973
In 1973 his son, Walter Aikens, joined the family business and the construction company became H & W Construction. Named after Harry and Walter Aikens. Over the years Harry and Walter expanded the services Aikens Group provides to include commercial construction, land excavation, commercial real estate leasing, land development, crane rental services, hotel development, and residential rental properties.
1994
In 1994 Steve Parrish began his career with the Aikens Group as the head of the Hotel Division and as with many family businesses, Walters’s two sons began working with the company at an early age and followed in their father’s footsteps after college.
2000
In 2000 William Aikens began working for H&W Construction as a project superintendent.
2002
In 2002 Jason Aikens joined the team as an operations manager for the hotel properties.
2005
In 2005 the Aikens Group Headquarters was built in Winchester, VA.
1931
Aikens Construction Founded
Harry Aikens creates Harry Aikens Construction with $1,500 loan from bank.
1931
1949
Built First Drive-In Theater
Built Pine Grove Drive-in Theater in Martinsburg West Virginia.
1949
1950
First Tastee-Freez in VA
Harry Aikens operates first Tastee-Freez franchise in Virginia.
1950
1955
Current Roma on the Go Building Built
Harry Aikens builds first piece of commercial real estate to lease to others. The Aikens Group was formed.
1955
1957
Built Super 29 Drive-In
Harry Aikens opens Super 29 Drive-In in Fairfax, Virginia.
1957
1972
Walter Aikens Graduates from University of Richmond
Walter Aikens Graduates from University of Richmond and starts to work Full Time for Harry Aikens Construction.
1972
1973
Aikens Construction Renamed to H&W Construction
Harry Aikens Construction renamed to H&W construction standing for Harry and Walter Aikens.
1973
1975
First Aikens Sizzling Steaks Opens
The first Aikens Sizzling Steaks opened on Wilson Street in Martinsburg, WV.
1975
1980
First Apartment Building Built
Aikens Group opens its first Apartment complex in Winchester, VA.
1980
1984
Walter Aikens Elected as President of H&W Construction
Walter Aikens Elected as President of H&W Construction. Harry elected as Chairmen of the Board.
1984