1/14/2013

Reuben Johnson & Son, Inc. has a new name and a new headquarters.

The holding company has been renamed Capstan Corporation. A capstan is an instrumental device on ships that's symbolic of the central role the corporation plays in its group of companies.

Reuben Johnson & Son was founded in 1956 in Superior as a construction company. Over the decades it has grown into a family of companies in heavy industry and commercial real estate, while still performing commercial and highway/heavy construction through its RJS Construction Group subsidiary. Capstan also owns Fraser Shipyards, Lake Assault Boats, Northern Engineering Co., AtWater Group, Building Logic, Johnson Materials Co. and Viant Crane – all in the Northland – as well as Energy Systems Co. in Omaha.

Previously, Capstan shared space in Superior with two of its companies. However, the companies have grown out of the space. RJS Construction Group and Viant Crane will continue to operate from their offices on Stinson Avenue in Superior. Capstan has moved to 310 E. Superior St. in Duluth, a building owned by AtWater Group. The move gives all of the companies room for expansion.

"We’re excited about the success our companies have experienced over the years,” said Todd Johnson, chairman and CEO of Capstan. “Our new location and name better define us as a holding company and position us for more investment in our region.”

Dan Markham is executive vice-president and Scott Brantley is controller of Capstan.

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