Homestead Timbers
In 1980, Jim Bursma bought a 40-acre pine plantation and a used saw mill to build his log cabin. He set up the mill in the field next to his home, using an old John Deer tractor to power the mill. His brother-in-law visited the cabin and fell in love, so he decided to build his own log home. It didn't take long for a neighbor and a nephew to do the same. It was becoming a full-time job to keep up with the demand and it was fun.
Soon, a nearby log home company needed hand peeled logs. As word spread, local log home builders were stopping by for their needs. A large workshop and warehouse was soon built for the growing business. At this time, Michigan white cedar was used exclusively for walls and pine for beams, etc. and after two years it was time to retire the John Deer and bring in 440 electric power and a new mill.
The business soon outgrew its location, as the difficultly of bringing in log and semi trucks was increasing.