Michigan Lumber Co.

Just beyond the heart of the downtown area, a family-owned business has been operating from its original location since its founders came to Flint in 1914. Most observers would assume that any business starting about that time would be tied to the booming automobile factories, but this operation contributed not only to the building of Flint’s auto manufacturing prominence but to the overall growth of this area as well. Holding the distinction of being the oldest lumber yard in Genesee County, Michigan Lumber Company is continuing to operate under the philosophies established by their forefathers to give their established customers the finest quality lumber products with an underscore of premier service. Situated at 1919 Clifford Street near the intersection of Saginaw and 12th streets, this full-line lumber supply house is currently in the hands of fourth generation family members Charles (Chuck) A. Olson as president and Gerald (Gerry) A. Haan as vice-president. Both men are very proud to be in a position to carry on the traditions set forth by their ancestors and enjoy reflecting on the origins of their family business.

When Nels Olson landed on the American shores from Sweden in the late 1800′s, he was greeted by another fellow countryman who encouraged him and other Swedes to go to Michigan to work in the fledgling logging industry. In those days there wasn’t a source to buy lumber, so there was a desperate need for people to log the wood, mill it, then cut it to needed specifications. Nels eventually established and successfully operated a mill in the Manistee area with the help of his three sons Philip, Anton and Victor. In 1914 he decided to send them to Flint with the hopes of starting a lumber business. With the construction of factories and housing all throughout the area, there was a natural, strong demand for building supplies and service. The Olson brothers found an existing lumber and fuel supply business that was operated by the Holihan family under the name of Michigan Cedar and Pole Company. They managed to raise the required capital and in 1916 incorporated their new business under the name of Michigan Lumber and Fuel Company. Those early days saw the Olsons diligently working to supply the building needs of the Flint community and firmly implanting their reputation of delivering the best quality products backed up by the best available service.

All three Olson brothers stayed in the business until their deaths, and all had children to carry on the operations. Philip had a son named Arthur; Anton had a son named Howard; and Victor had a daughter named Barbara. All of the offspring continued to run the business much in the way their fathers did, in accordance with the staunch work ethic instilled by the parents.