Building with Integrity for Over a Century
Rees Construction Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned heavy civil construction company based in Quincy, IL. What began in 1887 with a brick mason named Casper Rees has grown into one of the most reliable names in infrastructure and concrete construction in the area. With over 135 years of experience, we remain committed to building safe and high-quality roads, utility systems, and foundations that last.
Our Mission
At Rees Construction, we are committed to providing the best product to our customers, delivering projects on-time and within budget, and executing all work to the highest standard of safety and quality.
A Legacy of Construction Excellence
Casper Rees, a German immigrant and skilled brick mason, founded Rees Construction in 1887. However, his story in Quincy began long before that. Born in Oberkirch, Baden, Germany, in 1831, Casper immigrated to Quincy in the 1860s, where he worked as both a stone mason and a teamster. He quickly gained a reputation for his skill and strong work ethic. In 1887, he secured his first city contract to pave the entire block around Washington Square. This project marked the beginning of Rees Construction and established Casper as Quincy's first recognized paving contractor.
In the years that followed, Casper's son Henry joined the business. In the late 1800s, Park Place, located between 12th and 14th Streets, became Quincy's first upscale subdivision. Casper and Henry worked together to pave Park Place with brick and stone curbs, and remarkably, after 135 years, it remains unchanged.
Henry Rees & Sons
After Casper Rees passed away in 1891, his son Henry Rees took over operations, renaming the business Henry Rees & Sons. Henry completed a significant public works project known as the North End Sewer. Under Henry's leadership, the company experienced rapid growth, completing major sewer infrastructure projects throughout Illinois and neighboring States.
A Family Tradition of Civil Contractors
Following Henry's death in 1938, his sons-Frank, Carl, Walter, and Ed-assumed leadership of the company, which was renamed Rees Construction Company. The company then relocated to 517 Kentucky Street. In time, Edward Rees, the youngest brother, emerged as the leader of the company. Edward's sons-Edward Jr., William, Ronald, and David-later joined the family business, with David ultimately taking on the role of President.
During the sewer and water boom of the mid-1900s, Rees Construction became a preferred contractor for underground utility infrastructure throughout Illinois. In the early 2000s, the company expanded its services to include full-service heavy civil construction, and in 2021, it began offering poured structural foundations, providing clients with comprehensive site work capabilities.
Today, our headquarters proudly remains in Quincy, IL, at 330 S. 5th Street. Under the leadership of Owner, President, and fifth-generation leader Paul Rees, our experienced team continues to tackle the region's most complex projects with the same grit, quality, and attention to detail that have defined us from the beginning.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Paul Rees
As the fifth-generation leader of Rees Construction, Paul Rees grew up on job sites and began working on sewer and water projects at the age of 15. His deep understanding of the heavy civil construction industry stems from decades of hands-on experience, not just family legacy.
Paul is known for his level-headed leadership, project expertise, and passion for maintaining the family tradition of building things right the first time. He continues to expand the Rees Construction foundation in our community.
Tim Keppner
Tim Keppner brings over 15 years of large-scale construction experience to his role at Rees Construction, where he serves as Project Manager, Safety Manager, Quality Manager, and IT lead.
Before coming home to Quincy, Tim built a robust career in the construction industry. After earning his B.S. in Construction Management from Bradley University, he gained valuable experience as a Field Technician, Field Engineer, Estimator, Project Engineer, Superintendent, and Construction Manager.
Our Core Values
Safety First
Every decision starts with protecting our crews and the public.
Integrity Always
We do the right thing, even when it’s not the easy thing.
Legacy Built on Quality
We are proud of our history and build every project with that pride.
Partnership & Transparency
We believe in clear communication and always putting our clients first.
