On April 21, Hubbell Realty Company proudly celebrates 170 years of shaping Des Moines and communities beyond. Since its founding in 1856, Hubbell’s story has been one of vision, adaptability, and a deep commitment to building places that serve people today and for generations to come.
That legacy began with Frederick Marion (F.M.) Hubbell, whose life and influence are chronicled in The Short Man with the Long Shadow. The title says it all: while F.M. Hubbell may have been unassuming in stature, his impact on Des Moines was anything but small. Through early investments in transportation, utilities, insurance, and civic institutions, Hubbell helped lay the foundation for a growing city—and a company that would carry his name for nearly two centuries.
At the age of just 16, Hubbell recorded a 400-acre land transaction and began what is now known as Hubbell Realty Company.
From a Visionary Founder to a Community Builder
Long before modern development took shape, F.M. Hubbell understood that thriving cities require more than structures. They require systems, access, and opportunity. His efforts helped establish what would become Des Moines Water Works, advance public transportation with Des Moines first streetcar operation, and support institutions like Drake University, local hospitals, and social service organizations.
Hubbell established numerous operations you’ll recognize today:
- In 1867, Iowa’s first Equitable Life Insurance Company
- In 1871 he organizes Des Moines Water Company
- Became an original incorporator of the Des Moines Union Railway Company in 1881
- Hubbell Building was constructed in 1913
That philosophy, building with purpose, was a focal point for FM Hubbell until his death in 1930, passing at the age of 91. It remains central to Hubbell today. As the city evolved, so did Hubbell, expanding from early land and commercial investments into a full‑service real estate organization spanning development, construction, homebuilding, and property management.
A Timeline Defined by Growth and Adaptation
Hubbell’s history is marked by pivotal moments that reflect both market insight and long‑term thinking. In the mid‑1980s, the company played a major role in reshaping downtown Des Moines with the development of the Hub Tower and Kaleidoscope at the Hub, reinforcing Hubbell’s commitment to urban revitalization.
The ’90s brought expansion into suburban and land development, including projects like Lakeview Medical Park in West Des Moines and the formal creation of Hubbell’s land development and homebuilding operation, Hubbell Homes. In 1998, the launch of Hubbell Homes filled a growing need in Central Iowa—providing thoughtfully planned neighborhoods and homes that continue to shape areas like Mill Ridge, Gray’s Station, Waterford Landing and more.
As markets shifted in the 2000s, Hubbell once again evolved, moving deeper into multifamily housing, industrial development, and third-party construction projects. The formation of Indigo Living in 2008 positioned the company as a leader in multifamily property management, with more than 9,000 apartment units managed across five states today.
Building With Heart: The Hubbell Extreme Build Legacy
Few initiatives better reflect Hubbell’s values than the Hubbell Extreme Build. Beginning in 2006 with ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the company committed to tackling large‑scale philanthropic construction projects, on impossibly short timelines, for organizations serving those most in need.
From Anawim Housing to Easterseals Camp Sunnyside, the Ronald McDonald House, and most recently On With Life, Hubbell Extreme Builds have brought together hundreds of trade partners and volunteers to deliver life‑changing spaces in days. These efforts are more than construction feats; they’re expressions of Hubbell’s belief that success is measured by impact.
Diversifying to Serve Every Stage of Life
Over the last decade, Hubbell has continued to expand its reach while staying rooted in Central Iowa:
- The creation of Edencrest senior living communities elevated care options for aging Iowans
- Origin Homes has expanded custom and attainable homebuilding across Iowa
- Embarq Signature Homes has elevated Central Iowa custom homebuilding
- Hubbell’s Asset Management division oversees all dispositions and future acquisitions
- HRC Association Management oversees more than 5,000 HOA doors in Iowa and Nebraska
Meanwhile, investments in industrial development, asset management, and regional expansion into Nebraska and South Dakota ensure Hubbell remains resilient and forward‑focused, ready to meet evolving community needs.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter of Hubbell
In 2025, Hubbell announced a planned leadership transition naming Kyle Gamble as President & CEO, ensuring continuity while positioning the company for its next era of growth. With more than 400 associates, a diversified portfolio, and a reputation built on trust, Hubbell enters its 170th year with the same entrepreneurial spirit that guided its founder.
A Legacy Still in the Making
From F.M. Hubbell’s early influence on Des Moines to today’s neighborhoods, apartments, workplaces, and community spaces, Hubbell Realty Company’s story is deeply intertwined with the places people call home.
As we celebrate 170 years on April 21, we honor a milestone and a mindset: build thoughtfully, give generously, and always look forward.
To explore Hubbell’s full history and timeline, visit hubbellrealty.com/about/history.
