Our Proud History

I. Matheson & Co. Limited was founded in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia in 1856. Isaac Matheson, the company's founder, originally designed the company to compete in the shipbuilding industry before Confederation, during a time when merchant shipping was still the predominant means of transporting goods. In the company's preliminary days, I Matheson became known for its manufacture of Boilers and Steam Engines designed for ships, saw mills, and power generating plants. I Matheson also produced coal and gold mining machinery, equipment for pulp mills, as well as iron and brass castings. As the company grew in size and reputation, it established itself further, taking on larger projects involving the construction of steel ships. This venture included the manufacture of the first steel Schooner built in Canada, the James William, in 1908.

I Matheson continued to manufacture quality steel products throughout the 1900's, surviving two World Wars and many changes in industry. The company has endured the test of time through innovation, reputation, and the ability to adapt to change, and moves forward into the future keeping hold of the same values of quality and consideration I Matheson established over 150 years ago.