About
Continuous Innovation in Product Protection and Production Solutions since 1858!
Our passion for quality distinguishes us as the premier manufacturer of commercial equipment in dry sifting food processes and custom industrial applications.
We are determined to remain vigilant in our endeavors for technical expertise, responsiveness, and respect for fellow employees.
Kansas’ Oldest Continually Operating Manufacturing Firm
Continuous Innovation in Product Protection & Production Sifters Since 1858!
Great Western Manufacturing is the oldest operating manufacturing firm in the state of Kansas. The company has its beginnings in 1856, when John Wilson founded Western Foundry. His success grew in manufacturing steam engines and repair parts for steamboats, as well as wood burning stoves, and Western Foundry was incorporated two years later, in 1858.
In the early 1880’s, Great Western acquired the designs for a line of milling equipment and altered course to follow this new direction. This would eventually lead the company to becoming a large milling engineering firm, competing with such companies as Nordyke Marmon & Co. and Allis Chalmers.
Into the 20th century, worldwide demand for flour products were on the rise. However, following World War II, changing demands for new milling equipment in the United States led to a near-complete slowdown of production among U.S. milling equipment manufacturers, causing many to abandon the industry until the late 1960’s.
During this time post-war, Great Western shifted its focus from the manufacturing of full lines of milling equipment, and instead began to focus all their efforts into specializing in sifting, agitator, and screening equipment. It is this commitment and adaptability which led to the company’s rise as an industry leader in sifters, sieves, agitators, trays, and lab equipment.
Today, the 3rd generation family-owned company is known internationally for its technical expertise and quality products. Great Western Manufacturing’s mission remains to lead as the premier manufacturer of commercial equipment for dry sifting applications in food processing and custom industrial product applications.