History of
Mathews Company

MC Is Founded

In a humble garage, B.C. “Matt” Mathews launched Mathews Company with a vision to make farming easier, safer, and more productive. Armed with ingenuity and a determination to help farmers, he built the first grain drying equipment by hand, setting a new standard for quality and reliability. His guiding philosophy — “Make it easy to operate, make it safe, and make it last” — quickly earned the trust of hardworking farmers across the Midwest. From these modest beginnings, Matt’s dedication planted the seeds for what would become a lasting legacy of innovation and service in agriculture.

MC Sets Up Shop

Just two years after its founding, Mathews Company outgrew its humble garage and established its first official manufacturing facility at 301 Industrial Avenue in Crystal Lake, Illinois. This move marked a turning point, providing the space and infrastructure needed to meet growing demand for MC’s innovative equipment. The new facility became a hive of activity, with skilled craftsmen and engineers working side by side to deliver equipment that farmers could count on. It was here that MC began laying the foundation for a reputation built on quality, reliability, and a steadfast commitment to helping farmers succeed.

MC Choppers

With the launch of its first mass-produced product, the MC Chopper, Mathews Company took a bold step toward becoming a leader in agricultural equipment. These innovative machines transformed the way farmers handled forage, offering a reliable, efficient solution that quickly gained popularity. The impressive sight of rows of freshly built choppers lined up outside the factory symbolized MC’s newfound production capabilities and ambition. This milestone laid the groundwork for future innovations and set the stage for decades of growth in serving the needs of hardworking farmers.

First Grain Dryer Sold

Mathews Company reached a major milestone with the sale of its very first grain dryer in 1957. This groundbreaking sale signified the trust farmers were placing in MC’s innovative solutions and set the stage for nationwide growth. The early grain dryers, rugged and dependable, quickly proved their worth by helping farmers improve efficiency and crop quality. This pivotal moment ignited MC’s journey toward becoming a household name in grain drying equipment across the country.

Swing Knife Blitzers

Mathews Company introduced its groundbreaking Swing Knife Blitzers, featuring innovative free-swinging knife flails that revolutionized the way farmers managed tough vegetation. These powerful shredding mowers sliced through dense brush and crop residue with ease, saving time and reducing wear on equipment. By combining rugged durability with efficient cutting performance, the Swing Knife Blitzers quickly became a trusted tool for farmers seeking to maintain their fields and pastures. This innovation underscored MC’s commitment to creating solutions that made farming more productive and less labor-intensive.

MC Rotary Scythes

Mathews Company introduced its line of nonstop rotary scythe mowers, offering 7-, 9-, and 12-foot models engineered for rugged, reliable performance in the field. These innovative machines combined mowing and conditioning in a single pass, dramatically improving efficiency for hay and forage operations. Farmers quickly embraced the MC Rotary Scythe’s ability to cut through thick crops without clogging, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. With bold design and dependable construction, these scythes became a symbol of MC’s dedication to helping farmers get more done with less effort.

MC Shredders Debut

Mathews Company unveiled its first 7-foot-wide Shredder, ushering in a new era of innovation for residue management on farms. Engineered for power and durability, these shredders allowed farmers to quickly and effectively break down stalks, corn stubble, and other crop residue, improving soil conditions for the next planting season. The MC Shredder’s rugged design and superior cutting performance set it apart from other equipment of the era. This groundbreaking product reinforced MC’s reputation for delivering tools that made farming more efficient and productive.

Heavy Duty Mowers

MC expanded its product lineup with the launch of its first PTO-driven flail mowers, engineered to conquer the toughest mowing challenges farmers faced. Designed for durability and precision, these heavy-duty mowers delivered clean, consistent cuts even through dense weeds, brush, and uneven terrain. Their rugged construction and reliable performance quickly made them a favorite among farmers who needed equipment that could stand up to demanding conditions. This innovation solidified MC’s role as a trusted partner in helping farmers maintain their fields with ease and confidence.

MC Moves Down the Road

As demand for Mathews Company’s innovative agricultural equipment surged, the company made a strategic move to a much larger facility at 500 Industrial Avenue in Crystal Lake. This new, expansive plant provided the space needed to scale up production and introduce new product lines, fueling MC’s rapid growth. The relocation also signaled MC’s evolution from a small shop to a major player in the industry, with room to invest in advanced manufacturing processes. This milestone marked a turning point, positioning MC to better serve farmers with high-quality equipment for decades to come.

First Canadian Dryer

Mathews Company achieved a major breakthrough by shipping its first grain dryer to Canada, marking the company’s official entry into international markets. This milestone demonstrated the growing reputation of MC’s dryers for quality and reliability beyond U.S. borders. Canadian farmers quickly recognized the value of MC’s innovative technology, which offered better grain drying efficiency and durability in harsh northern climates. The success of this first international sale paved the way for expanding MC’s footprint worldwide and supporting farmers across North America.

First Export Dryer

Mathews Company celebrated a historic achievement by shipping its first export-certified grain dryer overseas, officially launching its presence in global markets. Transported via American Airlines Freight, this dryer met rigorous international standards and opened the door for MC equipment to serve farmers far beyond North America. The milestone demonstrated MC’s commitment to quality, innovation, and a willingness to meet the needs of farmers worldwide. This pivotal export laid the foundation for decades of international partnerships and global growth.

MC Combines

Mathews Company ventured into new territory by developing two prototype combines, showcasing its innovative spirit and commitment to exploring cutting-edge solutions for farmers. These machines were designed to offer superior harvesting performance and operator comfort, reflecting MC’s dedication to improving every step of the farming process. One of the original prototypes still proudly resides on the Mathews family farm, serving as a testament to the company’s willingness to push boundaries and experiment with bold ideas. This milestone highlights MC’s legacy of creativity and hands-on engineering excellence.

Fuel Tanks

MC introduced innovative portable fuel tanks designed to fit standard truck beds, transforming ordinary pickups into mobile refueling stations. These rugged tanks gave farmers and contractors the flexibility to carry and dispense fuel directly to equipment in the field, saving valuable time and reducing downtime. Built with safety and convenience in mind, MC’s fuel tanks featured secure compartments and easy-access hoses, quickly becoming an indispensable tool on farms and worksites. This milestone showcased MC’s knack for practical solutions that kept operations running smoothly.

Lawn Genie

Mathews Company unveiled the Lawn Genie, the first flail mower in its lineup designed to collect freshly cut grass into a rear-mounted hopper, simplifying lawn care for homeowners and professionals alike. This innovative design reduced the need for raking or bagging, saving time while delivering a clean, polished look to large lawns and estates. The Lawn Genie combined MC’s rugged engineering with user-friendly operation, expanding the company’s reach beyond farms and into residential and commercial landscaping. This milestone showcased MC’s versatility and commitment to making outdoor maintenance easier for everyone.

75 Series Debut

Mathews Company launched the groundbreaking 75 Series of low profile grain dryers, designed to deliver faster, more efficient drying with improved grain quality. These advanced dryers featured increased air flow and expanded screen areas, enhancing capacity and consistency to meet the evolving needs of modern farmers. With versatile fuel options and modular configurations, the 75 Series set a new benchmark for flexibility and performance in grain drying technology. This milestone solidified MC’s reputation as a leader in innovative solutions that help farmers maximize their harvests.

Bin Fans

MC introduced its first line of stand-alone bin fans, designed specifically for in-bin grain drying and aeration, providing farmers with more control over moisture levels and storage conditions. These durable, high-performance fans improved airflow through grain bins, helping to preserve grain quality and reduce spoilage risks. With easy installation and reliable operation, MC bin fans quickly became an essential tool for farmers looking to extend storage life and protect their harvests. This milestone reinforced MC’s dedication to delivering practical solutions that meet real-world farming needs.

Flex Shredders

Mathews Company launched its innovative Flex Shredders, featuring collapsible-span designs with cutting widths of 24 and 30 feet, revolutionizing residue management for large-scale farming operations. These flexible shredders made it easier for farmers to efficiently cover wide fields while still navigating tight turns and transport routes. The robust construction and adaptable folding wings allowed quick transition from fieldwork to road travel, saving time and labor. This milestone demonstrated MC’s commitment to engineering versatile equipment that matched the evolving demands of modern agriculture.

Drybine

MC revolutionized on-farm grain management with the introduction of the Drybine, a complete in-bin drying system combining storage, drying, and cooling in a single unit. Featuring an integrated MC burner and strategically positioned mid-bin fan, the Drybine offered farmers greater control over moisture levels while maximizing energy efficiency. This innovative design streamlined the drying process, reduced grain handling, and minimized spoilage risk, all while saving on fuel costs. The Drybine quickly became a trusted solution for growers looking to protect and preserve their harvest with less hassle.

70 Series Debut

Mathews Company advanced its legacy of grain drying innovation with the release of the 70 Series grain dryers, designed to deliver even greater efficiency and reliability. Featuring enhanced airflow systems and upgraded burner technology, these dryers offered faster, more uniform drying to protect grain quality and boost throughput. The distinctive profile design not only improved performance but also simplified maintenance, making the 70 Series a favorite among farmers looking for dependable equipment. This milestone reinforced MC’s position as a pioneer in modern grain drying solutions.

Flail Mowers

Mathews Company solidified its reputation for rugged, reliable equipment with its line of heavy-duty flail mowers, designed to tackle the toughest mowing challenges with ease. Built for exceptional durability, these mowers provided consistent, fine cuts through thick grass, brush, and crop residue, making them a favorite for farmers and groundskeepers alike. Their robust construction minimized downtime and maintenance, ensuring long-lasting performance season after season. This milestone highlighted MC’s dedication to producing equipment that combined power, efficiency, and user-friendly operation.

Pulverizers

MC set a new benchmark in soil preparation with the launch of its “Big Tooth” pulverizers, engineered with double roller durability to handle the toughest ground conditions. These rugged machines broke up clods and smoothed soil with unmatched efficiency, making them ideal for everything from seedbed preparation to landscaping projects. Farmers and contractors appreciated their reliable performance and ability to create a perfectly graded surface, reducing the need for additional passes. This milestone showcased MC’s commitment to designing tools that delivered superior results and stood up to demanding work.

Kan-Sun Acquired

Mathews Company expanded its product portfolio by acquiring the Kan-Sun tower dryer line, enhancing its lineup of continuous flow grain dryers. The addition of Kan-Sun’s proven design provided farmers with a high-capacity, energy-efficient solution for large-scale drying needs. By integrating this trusted brand, MC offered even more options tailored to different farm operations, reinforcing its leadership in grain drying technology. This strategic acquisition marked a major step forward in MC’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, innovative drying systems to growers worldwide.

80 Series Debut

MC introduced the advanced 80 Series grain dryers, raising the bar for drying efficiency, capacity, and control. These dryers featured state-of-the-art airflow and heat distribution systems, enabling faster and more uniform moisture removal while preserving grain quality. With enhanced automation options and robust construction, the 80 Series provided farmers with dependable, high-performance drying solutions that could handle larger harvests with ease. This milestone solidified MC’s reputation for innovation and its dedication to helping growers achieve better results every season.

Aerators

Mathews Company introduced its line of heavy-duty aerator systems, purpose-built for total ground relief in turf, pasture, and soil conditioning applications. These rugged aerators penetrated deeply to break up compacted soil, improving water infiltration, root growth, and overall soil health. Designed for durability and ease of use, MC Aerators quickly became an essential tool for farmers, landscapers, and groundskeepers aiming to revitalize their land. This milestone reflected MC’s ongoing commitment to engineering solutions that help customers get the most from every acre.

First 10’ Tower Dryer Design

Building on the knowledge and experience gained from acquiring the Kan-Sun tower dryer line in 1989, Mathews Company released its first fully in-house designed 10-foot tower dryer with models 10420 through 10750. These new tower dryers integrated years of customer feedback and engineering advancements, featuring optimized airflow, improved heat distribution, and enhanced safety systems. By designing the towers entirely in-house, MC took full control of quality and innovation, ensuring these dryers met the evolving demands of modern farming. This milestone marked a significant evolution from the Kan-Sun foundation to a new era of MC-engineered solutions that set a higher standard for performance and reliability.

12’ Tower Dryer Debut

MC took a major step into the commercial grain drying market with the introduction of its first 12-foot tower dryer, engineered for large-scale operations requiring higher capacities and efficiency. These commercial-grade towers delivered faster drying speeds, improved airflow, and robust construction to handle the demands of modern grain facilities. By expanding beyond the 10-foot design, MC provided customers with versatile options tailored to both family farms and large commercial elevators. This milestone underscored MC’s commitment to meeting the needs of a growing agricultural industry with innovative, high-capacity solutions.

PLC “Smart Controls”

Mathews Company ushered in a new era of precision and automation with the launch of its first PLC-based smart controls, utilizing Red Lion HMI and Siemens PLC systems to give operators unparalleled control over their dryers. These intelligent controls allowed farmers to monitor temperatures, adjust discharge rates, and automate processes for more consistent drying and reduced the risk of over drying or spoilage. By integrating advanced sensors and a user-friendly interface, MC’s smart controls dramatically improved efficiency, safety, and ease of operation. This milestone marked a significant technological leap that set the stage for future innovations in grain dryer automation.

Automatic Fuel Controls

Mathews Company took a major step forward in safety and efficiency with the introduction of automated burner temperature controls, featuring digital valves integrated into the fuel train. This innovation allowed precise, real-time adjustments to burner operation, maintaining consistent drying temperatures while reducing fuel consumption and operator intervention. By automating critical fuel system functions, MC enhanced both performance and peace of mind for farmers, setting a new standard for modern grain dryer controls. This milestone reinforced MC’s commitment to leveraging technology for smarter, safer drying solutions.

Introduction of the 18’ Tower Dryer

Mathews Company reached new heights with the debut of its 18-foot tower dryer, the largest and most powerful grain dryer in the company’s history. Engineered for industrial-scale grain operations, these tower dryers delivered exceptional capacity, efficiency, and drying precision to meet the demands of the largest farms and commercial grain facilities. Featuring advanced airflow and heat control systems, the 18-foot towers offered faster drying times and improved grain quality, even at massive volumes. This milestone demonstrated MC’s commitment to pushing boundaries and supporting customers as agricultural operations grew bigger and more complex.

Real-Time Dryer Monitoring

Mathews Company enhanced operator experience and dryer performance with the introduction of Siemens-based two-line touch controls, giving users real-time access to critical data like grain moisture and temperature. These intuitive displays made it easier to monitor and adjust dryer settings on the fly, improving drying consistency and reducing the risk of grain spoilage. The advanced touch interface also simplified diagnostics and maintenance, empowering farmers with better control over their drying process. This milestone reflected MC’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology for smarter, more efficient grain management.