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.

1985

First Multi Building Apartment Complex Built

Aikens Group opens its first multiple building apartment complex, Shawnee Terrace Apartments.

1985

1985

Super 29 Drive-In Sold

After over 30 years of operating drive in theaters the Super 29 was sold in 1985 in Fairfax VA. An end to an Era.

1985

1986

H&W Crane Division Started

H&W Crane Service Division was created.

1986

1987

Dominion Square Built

Dominion Square built and Harry Aikens moves to Penthouse located on top of office building in Winchester, VA.

1987

1991

Built First Hotel

The Aikens Group builds its first Hotel. The Comfort Inn in Martinsburg WV.

1991

1992

Aikens Sizzling Steaks Closes Doors

After nearly 25 years of operating multiple restaurants the Aikens Group decided to close the 5 remaining Aikens Sizzling Steaks. The end of an era!

1992

1994

Steve Parrish Hired – Becomes Partner

Steve Parrish Hired as Head of Hotel Development.

1994

1999

Pemberton Village Built

The Aikens Group opens Pemberton Village, the first large-scale apartment complex in the portfolio.

1999

1999

First Hilton Product Built

The Aikens Group opens its first Hilton Hotel, the Hampton Inn and Conference Center.

1999

1999

William Aikens Graduates from James Madison University

William Aikens graduates from James Madison University and starts to work at H&W Construction as Project Superintendent.

1999

Initial Focus Target