Since 1900, we’ve been innovators in protecting health, human safety, and the environment through our sustainable water solutions. At the turn of the twentieth century, John A. Zurn purchased Erie City Iron Works’ backwater valve patterns and set up shop manufacturing valves and other plumbing products that addressed building owner and end-user challenges.
Since then, we’ve continued to expand and grow, bringing together leading brands like Wilkins Regulator, World Dryer, Hadrian, Just Manufacturing, and, most recently, Elkay.
Zurn acquires Hadrian, enabling Zurn to provide complete washroom solutions. Rexnord brand is spun-off, while Zurn becomes a pure-play water business. Zurn and Elkay agree to combine, creating a leader in sustainable water solutions that unites our wide array of leadership brands and sustainable business practices.
Zurn acquires Green Turtle and World Dryer and increases the urgency of its focus on improving water quality, efficiency and conservation for the good of business and the planet. Elkay introduces its award-winning ezH20 water bottle filling-station, which reduces plastic bottle waste headed to landfills.
Zurn is acquired by Rexnord, bringing further investment and growth in strategic water management solutions. Elkay acquires SSP, Inc., adding new capabilities to support commercial and foodservice customers.
Elkay acquires Halsey Taylor, which rounds out its water cooler business. Green Turtle Technologies, which will become a leading provider of patented interceptor systems, is founded.
Zurn adds flush valves to its portfolio. Elkay expands into the retail market. Hadrian is created when its founders purchase the toilet partition business of Westeel Corporation. In 1988, in need of investment to continue its growth, Zurn is bought by Jacuzzi.
Zurn acquires Wilkins Regulator Company, another homegrown business known for quality and pioneering products. Elkay’s three-compartment design escalates the popularity of stainless steel sinks.
Zurn keeps growing despite the tragic death of John Henry Zurn, grandson of the founder, who was intended to lead the company. Elkay continues to grow, introducing its own line of water coolers.
Zurn, Elkay and Just Manufacturing continue to grow and invest in innovation and automation. World Dryer is founded just a few years after the first hand dryer is invented.
Zurn, Elkay and other businesses turn their efforts to supporting the U.S. war effort. Zurn is ultimately awarded the “E” Award for excellence in producing wartime materials – an honor given to only five percent of the nation’s manufacturers. In 1946, Zurn launches drains, which will become a staple of our advanced water solutions.
Despite the Great Depression, Zurn recognizes that as urban development continues, wastewater treatment and plumbing will become even more important. The company turns its focus to water safety and control. Just Manufacturing, begins producing stainless steel sinks and related products.
Elkay Manufacturing is founded on Chicago’s Near North Side with a vision of manufacturing the highest quality sinks and providing exceptional service to its customers.
John A. Zurn broadens his growing business. With a partner, he invests in a bronze pattern and tooling company and then adds Lake Erie Foundry for its resources and castings. They officially name the business J.A. Zurn Manufacturing company. Halsey W. Taylor develops and begins producing sanitary drinking fountains.