Our History

Cecil Roy Machan 1914 - 1982

Cecil Machan, originally from Monkton, Ontario, embarked on his farming journey alongside his father, William Henry Machan, at a young age. By the time he turned 15, Cecil ventured out on his own and collaborated with his brother. He invested in a truck and initiated transporting posts, poles, cattle, and other goods. Initially involved in cash cropping and dismantling steam engines, Cecil transitioned to selling boilers to tobacco farmers. Subsequently, he established a sawmill, catering to the lumber needs of local farmers. Cecil sourced lumber from Northern Ontario, transporting it to the Mount Forest area for sale. During times of lumber surplus, he constructed homes and cottages, relocating them to various sites across Southwestern Ontario.

Throughout the 1950s, the business transitioned from part-time house moving for clients to a full-time operation. By the 1960s, the founder's three sons joined the team. The equipment used was all created, planned, and produced right in the family's workshop.

Within our inventory of inventions, you will find a range of equipment, such as:

• original hydraulic power bunk (1969)
• self propelled power jacks (1972)
• drop dollies (1968)
• universal hydraulic house transporter (1983)
• various clamping methods for clamping to building walls
• self propelled telescoping jacks (1992)
• improved drop dollies with all wheel brakes (1988)
• all hydraulic trailer (1989)
• added several self propelled jacks over the years
• several hydraulic power packs
• 2 1/2" C clamps, 1" wall clamps
• 100% fail safe clamp to wall system
• many different styles of dollies from small to heavy duty
• Spreader bar for modular homes with lifting belts
• accumulation of over 1000 ton steel beams to facilitate loading 30 to 40 buildings simultaneously

Throughout the years, we have successfully relocated a wide array of residential properties, farm sheds, barns, garages, bunkies, and garden sheds. Our expertise even extends to moving railroad cars, railroad stations, cabooses, swimming pools, portable classrooms, and bridges.