JJ Curran Crane: Lifting Together for 75 Years of Family and Community
- Meagan Wood
- Feb 10, 2025
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
Detroit-based JJ Curran Crane is marking its 75th anniversary under the theme “Lifting Together: 75 Years of Family and Community.” Founded in 1950 as a small excavation business, the family-owned company has grown into a respected Midwest crane rental provider, operating a modern fleet of mobile and all-terrain cranes while remaining firmly rooted in the values that shaped its history.
From a single backhoe to crane rental specialist
JJ Curran Crane was founded in 1950 by John (JJ) Curran as Dearborn Excavating, operating initially with a single backhoe. Over the following years, the business expanded steadily as demand for lifting and construction services grew in the Detroit area.
A pivotal moment came in 1954, when Curran purchased a 30-ton Lorain lattice truck crane. The investment marked the beginning of a strategic transition toward crane services, and by 1959, the company had fully committed to becoming a dedicated crane rental business.
Innovation and early adoption in the Detroit market
During the 1970s, JJ Curran Crane became an early adopter of hydraulic and telescopic truck cranes, helping reshape lifting operations in the Detroit market. This period also marked the start of a long-standing relationship with Grove Manufacturing, a partnership that continues today.
The company’s willingness to invest in new technology and equipment helped establish its reputation for reliability, capability, and technical expertise across a wide range of lifting applications.
A family business across generations
Today, JJ Curran Crane remains a family-owned company, led by Jeff Curran, son of the founder. Under his leadership, the business has continued to modernise its fleet and operations while maintaining a strong focus on people and long-term relationships.
The current fleet includes mobile and all-terrain cranes ranging from 8 to more than 400 tonnes, supporting projects across construction, maintenance, maritime, railway, demolition, and infrastructure sectors throughout the Midwest.
“Lifting Together: 75 Years of Family and Community”
The company’s 75th anniversary theme reflects its long-standing emphasis on teamwork, loyalty, and community involvement.
“Lifting Together: 75 Years of Family and Community is more than a campaign it’s a celebration of the values that have shaped our journey,”
said Jeff Curran, President of JJ Curran Crane.
“We are grateful to our employees, customers, and partners who have supported us along the way. Together, we reflect on our shared accomplishments and look ahead to a future guided by the same principles that built this company.”
Throughout 2025, JJ Curran Crane plans to host anniversary events, recognise employees, and share reflections on key milestones that have defined its history.
A legacy built on people and performance
From lifting iconic Detroit landmarks in the 1970s to operating today’s flagship cranes including high-capacity Grove all-terrain models JJ Curran Crane’s story mirrors the evolution of the crane industry itself.
Seventy-five years on, the company continues to balance heritage with progress, remaining a trusted lifting partner while preparing for the next generation of projects and leadership.
About JJ Curran Crane
JJ Curran Crane is a Detroit, Michigan–based crane rental services company serving the Midwest United States. Founded in 1950, the family-owned business provides mobile and all-terrain crane solutions for construction, industrial, maritime, railway, and demolition projects.
The company operates a modern fleet ranging from 8 to over 400 tonnes and remains committed to safety, innovation, and long-term customer relationships.
Website: https://www.jjcurran.com
