About us

In January of 1882, Richard Williamson Sr. opened the doors to R. Williamson & Company on the northwest side of Chicago, IL. Offering premier gas and electric architectural lighting fixtures for all of America, specializing in stained glass, leaded glass and chandeliers. The business was fast growing, beginning in a modest 1,500 square foot facility on Milwaukee Avenue and progressing to a 115,000 square foot facility at Washington & Jefferson in 1891. By 1910 R. Williamson & Company employed more than 500 hands. 

In January of 1911 Richard Williamson Jr. saw opportunity to further grow the business through distribution. By 1914 there was not a state in the nation that was not touched by R. Williamson & Company. In August of 1931, Richard Williamson Jr. forged a historic deal with Robert Hartzell at the Hartzell Propeller Fan Company to distribute their line of propeller fans to the residential, commercial and industrial markets alike. This expansion laid the foundation for what the business is today. 

In January 1945 Robert Williamson Sr., best known as Bob, proudly returned from the Philippines after serving our country in World War II. Without hesitation he proudly joined the business marking the 3rd generation of Williamson’s in the business. Bob continued the tradition of growth through positive leadership, increased distributorship and larger sales force. After leading the company for 64 years, Bob retired in 2009. 

In January of 1973 Robert Williamson Jr. marked the 4th generation of the business upon his return after serving our country. Rob became a student of the industry and learned the business from every angle. Having a vast product and application knowledge Rob was able grow the business as well as identify and source products that complimented our existing offerings, adding commercial and industrial air cleaning to our offering. Of equal importance, Rob brought the company into the computer age, streamlining and creating processes to provide a more efficient and  effective sales experience.  

In October of 1997 Robert Scott Williamson began the 5th generation of the business upon his completion of school. Having worked under both Bob and Rob, Scott was introduced to generations of knowledge from the beginning. Putting that knowledge to quick use, Scott progressed the company to top honor accolades with many of their manufacturers. His priority from the beginning has been to maintain the same excellent level of service and growth that has been provided for 4 generations before him. 

For over 135 years, R. Williamson & Associates has been providing industry with high quality commercial and industrial equipment. Today, we provide only the finest in air movement and air pollution control equipment. If you are looking to clean up, cool off, separate, exhaust or pressurize your facility, process or people, then look no further! R. Williamson & Associates is here to provide you with the largest selection of air movement and air cleaning equipment available. We are here to offer you the application assistance you are looking for from start to finish. Equipment only or a full turnkey installation package, whatever your approach, we are eager to please.

Please Contact our team today. We look forward to working with you. q