We were the PAST - We are the PRESENT - We will innovate the FUTURE.

History

Jenkins Machinery Company was founded on the corner of 8th Street and Jefferson in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The company operated a machine shop and foundry specializing in general machining and the manufacture of chair irons (used for making office chairs). In 1916 three companies were combined to produce Jenkins Machine Company: Jenkins Machine Company, Falls Machine Company, and E.B. Hayes Machine Company. The combination of these companies had a woodworking line encompassing straight line rip saws, continuous feed glue joiners, glue clamps, planers, double-end tenoners (DET), double end trim and cut-off saws, 3-in-1 machines, stile borers, dowel machines, and related sash and door machinery.

Jenkins Hayes No. 85 Double End Tenoner

The Jenkins Hayes No. 85 Double End Tenoner was a double geared tenoner. The design of the double geared tenoner originated with the E.B. Hayes Company and was continued and improved by Jenkins. The original machine used babbitt (poured) bearings. Jenkins eventually changed to ball bearings throughout. Each cylinder head arbor, saw arbor and cope arbor were driven with an independent high-speed induction motor, eliminating the use of all belts adding to the improvements in the later models of this machine.

Jenkins Relocates to Sheboygan Falls

In 1926 the plant moved from Sheboygan to Sheboygan Falls, WI. Jenkins continued manufacturing its woodworking equipment redesigning various models for direct motor operation. The most popular models were the Jenkins Model 95 Double End Tenoner and the Model 105 Double End Trim and Cutoff Saw.

Jenkins Acquisitions

Jenkins Machine Company was acquired by Curt G. Joa, Inc in 1935. The product line continued to evolve with the introduction of wide based machine (the Jenkins 190 series). The advent of World War II curtailed the manufacture of any products except military. In 1957, Curt G. Joa sold the Jenkins product line and the factory to the Carl J. Kohler family. The Kohler family has produced Jenkins machines since this date.

Product Line Expanded

Jenkins Machine product line was expanded to include door sizers, panel cutting lines, multiple-head slatbed machines, and feed through boring machines. The 140 series was an early innovation of the DET, introducing an economical, high rail, dual center traverse machine.

CNC Integration

In 1984, Jenkins integrated CNC to the DET, with the presentation of a low cost, multi-axis, auto-setup machine. Since then, Jenkins has been an innovator of cutting edge technology for the DET, constantly improving accuracy, ease of operation,and capacity.

DET Design Improvements

In addition to advancing the design of the DET, Jenkins has been innovative in streamlining and automating CNC Shapers. The introduction of CNC Shapers began in the early 1990’s utilizing a single spindle machine, which is still used today. In 1998, Jenkins introduced the next level of shapers - a Dual Spindle CNC Shaper , which provides exceptional cut quality and further minimizes the sanding and sealing processes. In addition to this machine, the 3100 series Single End Tenoner, can produce high volumes of parts utilizing feed through shaping and sanding.

Jenkins Relocation to Sheboygan

In 2001, the plant moved from Sheboygan Falls to its present location in Sheboygan. Jenkins continued its commitment to innovation with the introduction of the 4200 series Double End Tenoner. This compact DET was specifically designed for the cabinet industry. Jenkins commitment to the future continued with the introduction of the 5100 series CNC Feed-Thru Shape and Sand Machine in 2005. This machine utilizes proven technology, a precision feed chain and a structurally solid design. Exclusive True Blend contouring reduces sanding and improves product finish.

Dual Sided Miter Machine Introduced

Jenkins introduced their newest innovations in 2006, the DSMM, Dual Sided Miter Machine, and the SSMM, Single Sided Miter Machine. The DSMM machines both ends of the product accurately sizing each piece. An automated loading and referencing system provides repeatability and precision. The blind mortise and tenon joint is fully customizable and controlled with a simple graphical touchscreen interface. The SSMM machines the product one end at a time, with features similar to the DSMM.

As Jenkins moves forward, we will continue to be committed to our customers with innovation for their needs. A forward vision based on a solid heritage.

 

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Jenkins Systems . 4336 Gateway Drive . Sheboygan, WI 53081 . (920) 452-2110