In 1870 the Schaads immigrated to East Tennessee from Solothurn Canton in Switzerland where they had been successful farmers and builders. In the last half of the 19th century, Swiss immigrants were the largest group of immigrants in Knox County. When they arrived they brought a quality work ethic, love of the land and commitment to family.

The Schaads began dairy farming in East Tennessee. Next they started selling Amish chicken feed, followed by lumber and building supplies. Their building supplies business segued into the construction business. Methodically reinvesting and working together, the Schaad family gained a reputation for being fair, honest and quality driven. Over the decades they have quietly shared their family’s success with their community.

Community outreach endeavors include being the ongoing lead sponsor for the Helen Ross McNabb Mental Health & Rehabilitation Center and East Tennessee Public Television’s major  fundraiser, This New House, and sponsoring annual events that benefit the Knoxville Museum of Art, the Knoxville Zoo, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, the Knoxville Opera Company and Knox Heritage.

Recently, Schaad Companies has joined HGTV's Restore America Program and the National Trust for Historic Preservation as the lead sponsor for Knox Heritage's 2007 Barber Houses Restoration Project.

Today, Schaad Companies’ headquarters is located in the historic Knollwood Manor on top of Bearden Hill. Inside this beautifully restored landmark, Schaad has created a mini gallery of Knollwood’s pre-Civil War history.

Schaad Companies continues to appreciate the values imbued in its Swiss heritage. The companies are involved in projects and ventures throughout the southeast and remain vigilant for new growth opportunities that will be beneficial for all concerned.