Wisconsin lumberyard Under New Ownership

Barker Lumber, Delavan, Wi., has been sold to a friendly competitor, as previous owner Ron Kastein steps down after 40 years. The lumberyard will remain at its existing location. 

The store was originally founded in 1871 by D.T. Barker, who started a lumberyard along the railroad tracks in Elkhorn, Wi., The Delavan yard opened 10 years later. The company was sold on Jan. 6 to Chris Hill, owner of Home Lumber, Whitewater, Wi. Kastein believes it was the right time to sell and feels he's leaving the 144-year-old company in good hands.