Our Legacy

The roots of Robert Hawthorne, Inc. reach back to the early 20th century. Robert Hawthorne learned the trade working alongside his father transporting coal, ash, and ice by horse and wagon. As Philadelphia’s industries expanded, the work evolved into hauling ash and cinders from industrial boilers using horse-drawn, bottom-dump wagons.

 

Over the following decades, from the years leading up to 1919 and continuing well into the 1990s, the company adapted to the city's changes. Horses gave way to trucks, and hauling expanded into excavation, which in turn evolved into demolition, and finally into crane rental. Each step reflected changing technology, growing job sites, and increasing demand

 

Founded formally in 1919, Robert Hawthorne, Inc. became known for heavy hauling, excavation, demolition, and crane work throughout Philadelphia. The company’s evolution mirrors the city itself, built gradually through hard work, experience, and a willingness to take on bigger challenges.

 

That same approach continues today through Hawthorne Crane Rentals LLC, carrying forward our Family’s Tradition Since 1919.