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

Initial Focus Target