Building Envelope Experts Since 1883
Since 1883, Forman Ford has been shaping the architectural landscape of the Midwest with a legacy grounded in integrity, innovation, and enduring craftsmanship. As a historic façade contractor, we honor more than a century of experience by combining time-tested building practices with advanced fabrication and installation technologies to deliver high-performance exterior systems.
While our heritage is rooted in architectural metal and glass façades, our expertise now spans the full building envelope. As envelope contractors, we integrate high-performance wall systems, metal panels, and custom enclosure solutions designed to meet complex architectural and environmental requirements.
FORMAN FORD
Rooted in history, leading through innovation
1883
Forman Ford began 143 years ago in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as Steel, Forman & Ford, founded by W.E. Steel, Frank B. Forman, and Theo Ford. The company operated in the glass, paint, and oil industries during its early years.
1885-1892
Theo Ford was succeeded by F.D. Ford, W.E. Steel sold his interest to Frank B. and Frank W. Forman, the company was renamed Forman, Ford & Co., and F.D. Ford later sold his interest to the Formans.
1900s – 1930s
Alexander Clerihew—who joined Forman, Ford & Co. in 1890—advanced from credit man to secretary, then president and treasurer, while also holding leadership roles in the Northern Linseed Oil Company and the National Glass Distributors Association.
1930s – 1950s
From the 1930s to the 1950s, Forman, Ford & Co. expanded under president Lee Potter, adding distribution centers in Great Falls, Sioux Falls, and Des Moines, where Potter and manager Warren Winberg acquired Des Moines Glass & Mirror. In 1944, the Minneapolis warehouse unionized following a tied employee vote and subsequent union‑won court cases.
1960s – 1982
From 1956 to 1982, Forman Ford’s Iowa operations grew as Warren Winberg hired Jerry Anderson and later Jim John, while ownership shifted when Lee Potter sold the company to Chamberlain Co. of America in 1963. After Chamberlain’s attempted sale to Apogee fell through, Winberg and Jim John purchased the company in 1975, and Winberg became sole owner in 1982.
1983-2005
Forman Ford went through several ownership changes from the mid‑1980s through the early 2000s before ultimately being acquired by Robert Wootten, who later sold the company to IGD Industries in 2005.
2006
Forman Ford proudly delivered the signature glasswork that helped elevate Kinnick Stadium into a modern game‑day landmark.
2008
Glass systems supplied by Forman Ford support the P. Sue Beckwith, M.D., Boathouse as a high‑functioning training environment for rowing athletes and staff.
2024
Forman Ford glass systems enhance the U.S. Courthouse in Des Moines as a secure, environment for judicial staff and visitors.
