Michels Stone receives Sustainable Dimension Stone Certification
With its recent acquisition of the ANSI/NSC 373 Sustainable Dimension Stone Certification, Michels Stone remains one of the most prominent quarriers and fabricators in Wisconsin
Natural stone quarrying in southern Found du Lac County, WI, has an extensive history that dates back to the early 1800s. Hamilton Lime & Stone, which was originally incorporated on October 30, 1935, was first owned by a local stone craftsman by the name of Torson Johnson. While traveling in search of work, Johnson discovered a material that was exposed in the Hamilton area — about one hour north of Milwaukee — and acquired the property, subsequently renaming the company to Hamilton Natural Cut Stone & Flagging Company in 1943.
After passing away in 1955, Johnson left the business to his wife and son, who eventually sold the company to Sterling Lumber for a short period of time. In 1958, the company was acquired by Elmer E. Holmuth and his brother, Milton H. Holmuth. After Milton’s passing in 1973, Elmer’s son, Dan, became more involved in the business. In 1976, he led the effort to acquire the Frances Costello farm, located directly across the street from their operations. Dan’s relationship with Costello helped him beat several bidders for the 60-acre property, and quarrying commenced quickly after the sale. On May 31, 1977, the name of the company was officially changed to Fond du Lac Stone Co., Inc.