Company History
In 1896 the tenacious John F. Younglove founded his own company, specializing in building grain elevators. By 1900, with over 100 employees, Younglove had established a stellar reputation, completing numerous elevator and mill projects across Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Indiana, and Missouri.
Embracing Innovation
As business flourished, Younglove separated from his partner and continued to brand himself as the “Iowa Elevator Builder.” Embracing innovation, Younglove Construction Co. was among the pioneers in modern slip-form construction techniques, constructing two concrete grain elevators in Morris, Illinois, and one in Archer, Iowa, by 1915.
The company saw the next generation join its ranks when Younglove’s sons, Clyde and Carl, came on board. Clyde, known as the “concrete specialist,” played a crucial role. In 1925, seeking financial stability and shared values, they became a subsidiary of W.A. Klinger, Inc.
Pioneering New Technology
Clyde’s son Roger joined the company in 1946, eventually taking over management. Younglove Construction Co. got back into the concrete grain elevator business in 1950. This time, Clyde Younglove made the prudent business decision to lease the latest slip-form equipment, which utilized a hydraulic jack.
While hydraulic slip-form equipment is now the standard in the elevator construction business, Younglove Construction was among the first companies in the country to use it. The introduction of hydraulic slipform construction equipment in the 1950s revolutionized the industry. Younglove
Construction Co. led the pack in this innovation, allowing us to build elevators faster and more efficiently — and often become the subject of articles in local papers.
Under the leadership of Mike Rueckert, who joined in 1967, the company expanded its engineering expertise and pursued larger, more complex projects. By the late 20th century, Younglove Construction Co. had established a national presence, working with top companies on cutting-edge projects.
In 2019, over a century after building our first flour mills, we constructed the largest flour mill in the United States.
Capable of producing three million pounds of flour per day, Younglove now collaborates with top companies nationwide on groundbreaking projects, cementing our status as an industry leader.
Today, Younglove Construction Co. continues to build state-of-the-art facilities, including mega mills with advanced receiving, mixing, production, storage, and loadout capabilities. Recent projects include feed mills for Peco, and Mountaire, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.
ABOUt us
Our people-first attitude means we build relationships, as well as agri-business facilities.
our values
From building grain elevators to pioneering modern slip-form concrete techniques.
our team
From building grain elevators to pioneering modern slip-form concrete techniques.