My Northern Wisconsin

Covering Ashland, Iron, Lincoln, Oneida, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, and Vilas Counties


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PRENTICE: HISTORY OF THE JUMP RIVER LUMBER COMPANY


Price County History    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 1 hour ago

   
Jump River Lumber Company Sawmill, Prentice, 1882
 
Into this rich forest land of north central Wisconsin, in the spring of 1881, came an elderly Scotchman. His name was Alexander Prentice, and he was accompanied by a George Greenman.  The two had journeyed from Portage to make a survey of the timber in this area and, if possible, to find a good location for a mill. They found it right by the Jump River where it was crossed by the Wisconsin Central Railroad.
 
Enthused by the promising aspects of their survey, they traveled back to Portage to make plans and to interest a number of their friends in a sawmill venture.  Early in the fall, they returned to put dreams into action.

Activities began on September 1, 1881, when George Greenman felled the first tree in that eight mile square of timberland along the Wisconsin Central. That night, the two men slept in a tent they had pitched in the vicinity of the present oil tanks.
 
They were soon joined by a group of men from Portage.  Oscar Derrick Van Dusen, who was already involved with a lumbering operation in Dorchester, was the first one on the scene.  Workmen, too, arrived with more tents and lumber for necessary buildings.  The old Scotchman viewed the tents with distaste.  One night in one of those things was enough.  Bunk houses held no appeal for him, either.  He preferred a comfortable bed in which to sleep and home-cooked meals.  With that in mind, he walked along the track as far as Worcester "101." There, he contacted the newly arrived Carl Hjorts and asked for board and lodging.  His request was granted.  So, for a little time, he made his home with them.  He walked to the mill and back each day. Occasionally, he would ride along with the section crew.
 
In the spring of 1882, the new lumber company was organized and incorporated under the name of the Jump River Lumber Company.  Officers named were O.D. Van Dusen, president; F. H. Lewis, vice president; M. T. Alverson, secretary and treasurer; and C. R. Gallett, superintendent.  Although Mr. Prentice did not assume any office, he was recognized as the senior advisor and leader.
 
Work on a sawmill began immediately.  By September 1, the mill was in operation with a capacity of 50,000 feet of lumber per day and later increased to 100,000 feet daily. A large planing mill, as well as a drying shed, were completed in 1894.
 
In the spring of 1889, the company purchased what was known as the Ward Tract (La Font) and located about four and a half miles or so southeast of the mill town.  That summer, a railroad spur was built into that wealth of timber.  Throughout the year, the mill ran both day and night.  About 450 men were employed.  In the spring of 1884, the company ceased operations, and the mill was operated only a few months each summer by O. D. Van Dusen. 

in the early '90s, a number of other enterprises were established in Prentice.  One was a heading mill owned by Mr. C. T. Fox and employed 25 men.  This operation lasted only a few years, and the owner returned to his home in Columbus, Ohio.  A stave mill was also started but did not continue long.
 
The enterprising Jump River Lumber Company attracted so much attention that the Chicago Lumber Journal gave it this publicity:
 
"Their sawmill is located about one-half mile from the railroad crossing on the east side of the Wisconsin Central Line.  It is the most excellent affair and deserves a description.  The main part of this mill stands north and south and is 70 by 100 feet in size.  On the east side of this main building are two smaller buildings, one 30 by 40, the other 20 by 20.  The mill contains two band saws, one which is manufactured by the Edwin Allis Company, Milwaukee.  The trimmer was made by McDonough Bros., Eau Claire; the edger and slab slasher by DeGroat, Giddings and Lewis,  Fond du Lac.  The lath is a McDonough, and the shingle mill was made by the Geo. Challoner's Sons, Oshkosh.
 
The shingle machine is one of double variety.  The power is furnished by five boilers.  There is no refuse burner here, but what is better, the offal is run out across a pond and burned where there is no possible chance of it getting to the mill.

The planing mill, located at a convenient distance south of the mill, stands in the same general direction as the sawmill and is 50 by 120 ft in size.
 
It contains improved surfaces; a 28-inch surfacer; one Hoyt & Bros. 15-inch surfacer; one 26-inch surfacer; one moulding machine, one rift saw, one cut-off saw. The engine, which runs the planing mill, is 12 x 32 inches in size, and the power is furnished by two tubular boilers.
 
When the mill was first built in 1882, an 8 foot dam was put in the Jump River and logs were boomed in that way.  Some of the finest logs ever lumbered in the state were taken from the river and the supply is not yet exhausted.
 
In the last two years, the mail has been largely logged by means of a railroad built six miles to the southeast.  The road is of standard gauge, built of 40-pound steel and is furnished with one engine and 30 cars.  At the present terminus, a dam has been built across the malden twenty feet high.  The back water resultant from this dam building has made a pond, which at one time this season held 12 million feet of logs.
 
The company also has logging privileges on the Soo Road and buys a great many logs, which are brought in over that line, which takes such good care of its sawmill friends."

Reprinted from the Prentice History Walk with encouragement from Dale Heikkinen

   

This marker is #2 on the History Walk Map.


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WELL-CARED FOR FLOCK OF CHICKENS - 1 ROOSTER AND 8 HENS


Classifieds    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, Today, 04:48 AM

I am looking for a good home for an established, well-cared-for flock, that must be kept together.  First 6 months of feed will be provided. Flock of hens are 8 with all but one still laying strong.  Five Isa Browns, two Rhode Island Red, one Easter Egger, and the other I don’t recall the type. The rooster is a gentlemen with one spur. These 9 chickens have been together since I brought them home as chicks and need to stay together.  All chickens in my flock are in excellent health and have been fed premium Kalmbach feed.  They lay huge eggs with strong shells.  They won’t be laying for more than a year or more, so I'm looking for a good retirement home for them.  For serious inquiries, email me at patip@mac.com.

   


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Materials Planner (Phillips)


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My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:54 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description

The Materials Planner is responsible for scheduling and expediting material requirements to support multiple BWP locations, focusing on finished goods and sub-assemblies. Key duties include interpreting MRP outputs, initiating and managing manufacturing orders, maintaining just-in-time inventory, and resolving material issues. The role requires collaboration across departments to ensure timely material flow and production efficiency. Candidates should have a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, planning and scheduling procedures, and experience with systems like Infor XA. Strong communication, prioritization, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

Essential Functions

Monitor and interpret material requirements planning (MRP) output to schedule, release, and maintain manufacturing orders.

Initiate shop orders to obtain material in accordance with schedule requirements; evaluate and determine alternate methods of meeting requirements with optimum cost and availability.

Utilize system to project requirements planning; analyze stock, units on order, future requirements, and other production related data; make recommendations for project requirements.

Responsible for maintaining just-in-time inventory and resolving materials issues while achieving and maintaining inventory business metrics.

Collaborate with other departments to determine disposition of materials and expedite flow of materials as needed; work with engineering in substitution of materials as required.

Partner with scheduling, engineering, and manufacturing to coordinate, expedite, or change delivery schedules.

Review overdue manufacturing orders - determine cause of delay and initiate corrective action.

May assist coach or guide less experienced team members.

Other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education:  High school degree required, college degree preferred.

Experience:  An understanding of the manufacturing process and a working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic components is desirable.  Working knowledge of Infor XA.

Skills and Abilities

Ability to prioritize and adapt to business changes on a daily basis.

Demonstrated proficiency in performing arithmetic calculations with accuracy and efficiency to support data analysis, reporting, and operational decision-making.

Must be able to read somewhat complex blueprints; ability to interpret instructions.

Working knowledge of planning and scheduling procedures, materials, machining operations, and time requirements.

Solid working experience with expediting materials to meet scheduling requirements.

Ability to effectively communicate and negotiate with internal stakeholders in engineering and manufacturing.

Knowledge of Infor XA, MS Office, and general computer skills.

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, continuously changing environment.

Exceptional communication.

Strong planning and scheduling skills.

Prioritization and task management.

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Director, Supply Chain (Phillips)


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My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:52 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description

As the Director, Supply Chain you will be responsible for the development and implementation of a global procurement organization and supporting framework.  Responsibilities include planning, organizing, controlling, coordinating, and overseeing the work of the procurement staff and other stakeholders.  You will develop and implement short- and long-term plans, goals and objectives focused on achieving the department’s mission and assigned priorities.  This role requires a strong understanding of Lean manufacturing and is expected to support a culture of continuous improvement and champion the use of Lean tools.

Primary Responsibilities

Responsible for the leadership of buyers and planners; plan, direct, coordinate professional development of procurement team.

Drive development, standardization, and implementation of procurement processes/procedures, supplier selection/management, negotiation and communication strategies, and cost reduction and process improvement methods.

Develop and deploy advanced procurement and demand planning strategies that work optimally with product development team during the product design and life cycle.

Promote and maintain up-to-date market knowledge about suppliers and service providers; develop long-term contract relationships as appropriate to exploit market opportunities and to secure strategic parts and services.

Distribute key commodities’ current and projected pricing data; take appropriate actions to minimize company exposure to upward fluctuations.

Develop key performance indicators and use them to report on company’s procurement performance; maintain a high-performance culture that meets/exceeds functional indicators with improved levels of service to both internal and external customers.

Establish and maintain systematic, analytical, results-based methods for monitoring supplier performance; communicate results to suppliers and end-users; provide timely action plans for corrective actions to be taken as necessary.

Manage and support corporate oversight for purchases across multiple expense categories and create strategic vision for company while driving purchasing synergies to achieve cost reductions across company product lines.

Build strong partnerships with supply chain vendors.

Embrace and exemplify the guiding principles of leadership and leadership fundamentals.

All other duties assigned

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, Management or Business discipline

7+ years' experience in a manufacturing, production or military environment

5+ years' leadership experience in a manufacturing, production or military environment

Location & Travel

This is an on-site role at our facility in Phillips, WI.

This role requires approximately 25% travel.

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Assembly Electrician (Phillips)


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My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:50 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description:

BW Papersystems has an Entry-level Assembler Electrician positions available that typically requires little to no prior product knowledge or experience.  Work is closely supervised and is routine or follows standard procedures. Perform installation and wiring of electrical components on company produced equipment.

Key Responsibilities/Complexities:

Read and interpret basic wiring diagrams, specifications, and work orders to determine materials requirements or assembly instructions.

Assemble basic electrical or electronic systems or support structures and install components, units, subassemblies, wiring, or assembly casings using rivets, bolts, and soldering equipment.

Label, wire and connect switch boxes and control panel terminal boards from basic wiring diagrams.

Working knowledge of industrial electrical concepts and principles; understanding of electrical components and use in industrial design of cabinets.

Check wiring for proper coding and termination; check for shorts, grounds, and continuity.

Ability to operate various hand and power tools properly, safely, efficiently and effectively.

Assist with the detection of defective material, unusual conditions or operating difficulties and report to supervisor.

Attend team meetings may provide input on quality, cost, or production issues.

Perform all work in accordance with established safety procedures.

Capable of multi-tasking various duties throughout the day, have a positive attitude with an ability to be versatile and flexible.

Possess good communication and interpersonal skills; be able to independently solve problems while interacting with various teams and teammates on daily processes and flow.

Maintain work area and equipment in clean and orderly condition.

Basic Qualifications & Requirements:

Completed High School Diploma or have GED Equivalent

6+ months of experience in electrical assembly, or related field

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Assembly Mechanic (Phillips)


Help Wanted    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:48 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description:

BW Papersystems is seeking skilled and experienced Mechanical Assembler / Machine Builder who enjoy hands‑on work, problem‑solving, and building complex machinery from the ground up. In this role, you’ll assemble custom box‑making machines and related equipment — working from detailed drawings, precision components, and high‑quality materials. If you take pride in putting together machines that run smoothly, accurately, and reliably, this is a great opportunity to grow your career with a global industry leader.

Job Responsibilities:

Work from assembly drawings, blueprints, instructions, and specifications

Plan assembly tasks in the proper sequence

Assemble sections of machinery based on customer specifications

Perform precision mechanical assembly involving rotating shafts, gear trains, sprockets, and mechanical structures

Use hand and power tools for assembly

Use precision measuring instruments to align, level, and ensure accuracy

Work to tight tolerances requiring square, parallelism, and concentricity

Identify and report defective material or unusual conditions

Complete documentation to meet quality and production requirements

Participate in team meetings to help resolve production, quality, or cost issues

Support team members with additional duties as needed

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area

Communicate effectively with teammates and collaborate to solve problems

Essential Functions:

Read and interpret complex drawings, blueprints, and specifications

Safely and accurately use hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments

Assemble mechanical components and machine sections to tight tolerances

Align and level components to ensure accuracy, square, parallelism, and concentricity

Maintain strong attention to detail in a fast‑paced assembly environment

Communicate effectively across teams

Adapt to changing priorities and production needs throughout the day

Follow all established safety procedures and maintain a clean workspace

Basic Qualifications and Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED

2+ years of mechanical assembly, machine building, or related mechanical experience

Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn and apply new assembly concepts

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Assembly Mechanic, Weekend Shift (Phillips)


Help Wanted    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:44 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description:

BW Papersystems is seeking skilled an experienced Mechanical Assembler / Machine Builder who enjoy hands‑on work, problem‑solving, and building complex machinery from the ground up. In this role, you’ll assemble custom box‑making machines and related equipment — working from detailed drawings, precision components, and high‑quality materials. If you take pride in putting together machines that run smoothly, accurately, and reliably, this is a great opportunity to grow your career with a global industry leader.

Job Responsibilities:

Work from assembly drawings, blueprints, instructions, and specifications

Plan assembly tasks in the proper sequence

Assemble sections of machinery based on customer specifications

Perform precision mechanical assembly involving rotating shafts, gear trains, sprockets, and mechanical structures

Use hand and power tools for assembly

Use precision measuring instruments to align, level, and ensure accuracy

Work to tight tolerances requiring square, parallelism, and concentricity

Identify and report defective material or unusual conditions

Complete documentation to meet quality and production requirements

Participate in team meetings to help resolve production, quality, or cost issues

Support team members with additional duties as needed

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area

Communicate effectively with teammates and collaborate to solve problems

Essential Functions:

Read and interpret complex drawings, blueprints, and specifications

Safely and accurately use hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments

Assemble mechanical components and machine sections to tight tolerances

Align and level components to ensure accuracy, square, parallelism, and concentricity

Maintain strong attention to detail in a fast‑paced assembly environment

Communicate effectively across teams

Adapt to changing priorities and production needs throughout the day

Follow all established safety procedures and maintain a clean workspace

Basic Qualifications and Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED

2+ years of mechanical assembly, machine building, or related mechanical experience

Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn and apply new assembly concepts 

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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CNC Machinist (Phillips)


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My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:36 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description:

Plan and perform a normal range of rough and finish turning, drilling, tapping, boring, facing, recessing, thread cutting and similar machining operations on a variety of shafts, housings heads, and parts of various ferrous and non-ferrous metals and alloys. Work from drawings, route sheets, specifications and instructions to determine operational sequence; set tools in cross slides or tail stock; select and set speeds and feeds according to the type of material and finish requirements; move selector lever or change gears for thread cutting.

Key Responsibilities/Complexities:

• Machine parts to specifications using machine tools such as Mills, Lathes, saws or grinders.

• Measure, examine, and test completed units in order to detect defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments such as micrometers.

• Calculate dimensions and tolerances using knowledge of mathematics and instruments such as micrometers and Vernier calipers.

• Set up, adjust, and operate all of the basic machine tools and many specialized or advanced variation tools in order to perform precision machining operations. Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials onto machines. Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.

• Select the appropriate tools, machines, and materials to be used in preparation of machinery work.

• Assure that work areas and equipment are maintained in clean and orderly condition; report and correct any unsafe work practices or conditions immediately.

• Performs all work in accordance with established safety procedures.

• Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience:

High school diploma or GED.

Typically requires 2-4 years’ machining experience including, but not limited to, set up and operation of various machine tools.

*1st and 2nd shift available

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Cost Accountant (Phillips)


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My Northern Wisconsin, Yesterday, 03:32 PM

Click here to learn more and apply.

Job Description:

Entry-level Cost Accounting role with broad accounting exposure through cross-functional collaboration; may have minimal experience in costing. Performs entry-level tasks while building experience to support more complex assignments over time. Receives guidance and instruction from more senior professionals. Analyzes material, labor, or other expenses to determine production costs, cost of sales, or other cost-related performance measures.

Analyzes material, labor, or other expenses to determine production costs, cost of sales, or other cost-related performance measures.
Captures and classifies cost data to determine the cost associated with products/product lines, projects, or departments.
Compares actual costs to historical or projected costs and reports on variance.
Provides cost-related data in support of business decisions or for use in financial reporting.
May participate in or oversee regular inventory cycle counts.
Other duties as assigned

Experience and Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree, preferably in Accounting or Finance; attitude and experience considered
0-3 years of business experience
Basic accounting knowledge required
Skills and Abilities:

Strong knowledge of Excel and experience working with ERP and/or MRP systems
Superior work ethic, self-motivated and strong desire to learn and improve processes
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize and accomplish multiple tasks on time with limited supervision
Demonstrated ability to partner with and influence stakeholders in operational and nonoperational groups.
Oral and written communication skills
Ability to handle multiple critical priorities with competing deadlines.
Flexible working conditions.
Location and Travel:

Must be local to Phillips or Sheboygan, WI
If local to Sheboygan, travel will be up to 20%

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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Antiques and Collectibles Rummage Sale


Garage Sales    No Replies

Katz2023, 07-22-2026, 09:59 AM

Antiques and Collectibles Rummage Sale: Red Wing stoneware crocks & jugs, Amish rugs, wall art, Pyrex, Fire King, enamelware, new Reborn Dolls, curved oak curio cabinet, fishing items, pocket knives,  new queen quilt set, new & vintage jewelry, old kitchen items, jadeite, cast iron pans, kids drone, assorted toys, vintage advertising tins, breweriana, new neons, dash and trail cameras. Shop inside in air conditioned comfort. Adding additional items each day. Friday, July 24th and Saturday, July 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. N9722 East Solberg Lake Road, Phillips, WI


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