About Us
Chase Lumber
FOR LOCAL, BY LOCAL. A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE.
Quality products. Straight answers. Competitive pricing. Friendly, knowledgeable service. Delivery where you want, when you need it (and free for local). These are the building blocks of Chase Lumber. It’s these qualities, combined with a true commitment to the community and the people who live here that have kept us in business since 1897.
Ask people why Chase Lumber is their preferred supplier of lumber and building products, and they’ll mention those same qualities. Because they haven’t changed through our five generations of family ownership. And they won’t over the next five.
As the fifth generation to lead Chase Lumber, I will continue to hold as our mission the words of my late father and past President, David Chase, “It’s relationships and word-of-mouth. We’re not interested in just getting the sale. We’re interested in repeat customers. I guess that’s why we’ve been in business for more than 100 years.” – Dave Chase
1897
Moses Chase and his son James. W. Chase expands their agricultural holdings by purchasing an interest in a lumberyard. Opening its doors on South Bristol Street in Sun Prairie as Chase, Mann and Gross.
1908
Benjamin Chase (son of James W.) grows the family business by purchasing Gibbons lumberyard on Main Street. At the same time, the Chase family becomes the sole proprietor of Chase, Mann and Gross.
1923
After consolidating businesses, Chase Lumber & Fuel Company is born, residing on Main Street for the next four decades.
1932
Frederick W. Chase (son of James W.) takes over as President of Chase Lumber & Fuel Co.
1939
Frederick expands the business into DeForest by purchasing a lumberyard and running it independent of Chase Lumber & Fuel Co.
WWII
With a new building boom, Charles begins to focus the company more on lumber and building and less on fuel. Purchasing a lumberyard in Cottage Grove that would also be independently run.
1964
In January, an arsonist sets fire to Chase Lumber & Fuel Co. on Main Street. After four decades, the Main Street location is a total loss.
1965
After the fire, Theodore moves the business to a much larger site on the west side of Sun Prairie (where it stands today) and becomes Chase Lumber, expanding the facility and operations.
1980
Upon his retirement, Theodore passes the business on to his son, David D. Chase, who becomes President of Chase Lumber, steering the expansion and growth of the business for nearly four decades.
2007
Chase Lumber wins "Wisconsin Family Business of the Year Award” for its contribution to the community and industry, positive links between family and business, and innovative business practices.
2017
After the passing of David, a 5th Generation of the Chase family takes the helm of Chase Lumber. Guiding the company with the same philosophies and business acumen that have been handed down for more than 100 years.
2017
The Cottage Grove lumberyard is closed and its operations spread to the Sun Prairie, Deforest and McFarland facilities.