About Us
C.T. Brayton & Sons, Inc. is one of the most trusted, respected, and accomplished general contractors in California’s San Joaquin Valley.
The Early Years
Our story began in 1946, when Carl Towne Brayton founded a construction company with his sons Franklin and Donald. Working out of Donald’s home, the trio quickly earned a reputation for outstanding results in school, commercial, and retail construction projects.
Some of the successful engagements in the early years included Petri Winery, Cadlolo Winery, Escalon Packers, and Pioneer Memorial Hospital.
A New Generation of Leadership
Frank’s son Robert (Bob) Brayton joined the company in 1975, having graduated from Fresno State and spent time learning about the construction industry working for other contractors. From his initial work in estimating and project management to his current role leading the company, Bob has honored and expanded on our legacy of high-quality work, care for employees, partnership with clients, and engagement with our local community.
Don was joined by Frank’s son, Robert (Bob) Brayton in 1975. Prior to joining the company, Bob graduated from Fresno State and spent three years with C.S. Plumb Co. and one with F & H Construction. Don and Bob performed the estimating and project management and Bob Kappral, who had already been with Don, continued to coordinate the field operations. Superintendents were Clarence York, Vern Jansen, Jim Fultz and Larry DeRuiter. They were assisted by a highly resourceful, unique field laborer named Dale Griffith.
After recuperating from a successful bypass surgery, Don was struck by cancer and passed away in 1982.
The 1980s to Today
By the late 1980s, the company’s powerful forward momentum was creating exponential growth, necessitating the expansion of our equipment and supply yards. We also needed to enlarge our headquarters.
Since 1969, C.T. Brayton & Sons had operated out of an annex adjacent to Carl and Sadie Brayton’s home, and more space was needed. In a testament to our heritage as a family-owned business, leadership chose to renovate the structure while preserving its early 1900s character. Today, you will still find us managing projects throughout the region from our historic headquarters on Jackson Avenue in Escalon.
In 2011, C.T. Brayton & Sons welcomed Bob’s son, Ross Brayton, to the team. A California Polytechnic State University graduate and former professional baseball player for the San Diego Padres, his background also includes several years of construction experience and an apprenticeship that led to his certification as a union carpenter.
And so, the story continues. After nearly 80 years, our company represents the best of both worlds: a rich history of construction industry experience and expertise coupled with youthful energy, optimism, and fresh perspectives.
We’re not the largest construction company in the Central Valley, but no general contractor has a deeper connection to this region, stronger working relationships with area schools and businesses, or a greater appreciation for their trust and loyalty.