One of the plans, though not the final, can be seen by selecting the above image 
 

After serving in the army, Russell Harris started an excavation company in 1948.  At this time the company was simply called "Russell Harris".  Russell worked all alone with just a small dozer doing any type of work his machine could do from Shelburne to Digby. 

In the late 50's and into the 60's,  he saw his business grow and decided to add more equipment.  In 1959 a track loader was added,  and a backhoe in 1960.  Also in 1960, Russell's youngest son, David, started full time.  As he  became more established, Russell expanded taking on more and often larger projects.  Some projects that were done during this time were the Argyle Elementary School, lobster pounds, land breaking for Churchill Bros. Farms, and the Cotton Mill expansion (where Tec Pak is currently located).

In 1968, Russell added a large dozer and tandem trucks to his business.  In the 1970's, Russell completed such projects as the hospital expansion, Tidal View Manor, Harbour Side Lodge and the first ground breaking for Rio Algom Tin Mine around 1979, just to name a few.  Things were going well and in 1975, Russell changed the name of the company to R&D Harris Excavating Ltd as David started to play a more important role in the business.

During the 80's, work continued.  R&D Harris was responsible in helping construct many of the places we go everyday, like the Yarmouth Mall, Tim Hortons and Vaughne Estates on Brunswick Street Extension.

In 1987 David became president and in 1989 opened a division called Western Landscaping. 1989 also saw the addition of David's son, Robert (Bobby).

As R&D Harris entered the 90's, they were proud to have played a part in building Yarmouth and surrounding areas.  They continued their efforts in constructing sidewalks in Wedgeport, Pubnico, Tusket and Barrington.  They also helped build Kent Building Supplies, Home Hardware, Atlantic Superstore and Canadian Printers, a division of Fundy Group Publications.

In 1994, Bobby became manager of Western Landscaping and in 1997 became general manager of R&D Harris Excavating Ltd.  Three generations and more than 50 years later has brought us to the present where R&D Harris has helped in doing the siteworks for the much needed Mariners Centre as well as Drumlin Heights, St Mary's Bay Academy and the Southwest Nova Correctional
Facility.

From large building construction to septic installation, lobster pound construction, to digging a well, R&D Harris Excavating Ltd has met and worked with a lot of people and companies which have helped bring us where we are today.  Some of these people include our dedicated employees, some of which have been with us for over 30 years.

The goal for R&D Harris Excavating Ltd for the future and the next 50 years is to continue to help the Tri Counties grow for tomorrow.