Art Schnepf acquired an interest in the lumber business early in life. Art grew up on a farm a few miles south of Rock Rapids, Iowa. Following high school graduation and a short term in business school, he accepted a position as a yardman with Pettingill's Lumber in Rock Rapids. He became the yard manager within a matter of years. But Art wanted a lumber yard of his own. In 1945, he moved his family of five to Humboldt, Iowa, where he built and opened Schnepf Lumber. However, the war years were not kind to many small businesses. Art chose to sell out a few years later. He moved his family back to Northwest Iowa, where he became the manager of Farmers Co-op Lumber in George.
The idea of owning his lumber yard persisted. In February 1951, with the financial assistance of Tony Schulte, a long-time farmer friend from Rock Rapids, Art purchased land, constructed an office, attached a storage building, and announced the opening of Schnepf and Schulte Lumber Company in Sibley. “A building service for farm, home, and industry” was Art's commitment; he emphasized personal service, the sale of quality materials, and becoming an integral part of the local community.
Schnepf Lumber Company still retains the core values Art insisted upon from the outset. "The most important project we have to work on today is your project.” Please stop by anytime for ideas, advice, building materials, or design services. Our many years of experience are included with every conversation and sale!
