About Shaw/Stewart

We don’t just talk about them

We Live Our Values

For generations, our commitment to doing the right thing has been the foundation of how we operate. Here at Shaw/Stewart Lumber Company, our purpose is to build lasting customer relationships, and every decision we make reflects this.

We uphold our core values as the foundation of everything we do. They serve as a guiding compass for our leadership team—helping us stay aligned with our mission and make decisions that positively impact our customers, employees, and the broader community. This commitment has enabled us to remain an independent, family-centered company while continuing to thrive in a highly competitive industry.

Investing in Our People

At Shaw/Stewart, we believe in growing together. Our culture is rooted in openness and honesty—we share company goals, business performance, and 90-day priorities with all employees so everyone understands how their role contributes to our success. We invest in comprehensive training and cross-training programs, empowering our team with a broader perspective and creating meaningful opportunities for growth and advancement.

Explore Careers

Fostering Growth from Within

Because when our people grow, so do we. Many of our team members have moved into new roles within the company, supported by tuition reimbursement and professional development programs. It’s part of our commitment to promoting from within and helping people shape long-term careers here.

What Makes us Unique

Creative Custom Solutions

We bring a builder’s mindset to problem solving: practical, inventive, and always tailored to what the project actually needs.

Responsive

Construction doesn’t wait, and neither do we. We’re on it, in it, and always in touch.

We Do What We Say

Integrity is non-negotiable. We follow through—period. If we say it, we mean it. If we commit, we deliver.

Exceptional Quality

Quality isn’t just about materials. It’s about mindset, pride, and doing things the right way. Every time.

Our History

1886

W.R. Shaw Lumber Co. Founded

W.R. Shaw Lumber Co. was founded in St. Paul. Early operations included various sites on Concord Street in South St. Paul

Early 1900's

Early Construction Impact

Employees from the company built and resided at what is now Heritage Crest (formerly Hillcrest) apartments on South 3rd Street

1924

First Strategic Expansion

W.R Shaw Lumber Co. acquired the G.C. Jefferson Lumber Co., expanding its reach within the Twin Cities regional market

1950's & 1960's

Local Prominence

W.R. Shaw Lumber Co. maintained a major yard on South Concord, situated near what is now the Bremer Bank. It served as a primary source for local builders and residents during this era

1985

Merger with Stewart Lumber

W.R. Shaw Lumber Co. purchased the Stewart Lumber Co.. This acquisition brought together two major Twin Cities lumber traditions

1996

Official Rebranding

The consolidated businesses were officially renamed Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co.

2021

Acquisition of Kruse Lumber

Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co. acquired Kruse Lumber of Rochester, MN (founded in 1915), further extending its service footprint into Southern Minnesota

Today

Serving the Twin Cities and Rochester Markets

Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company operates an 26-acre yard and a 30,000 sq. ft. architectural millwork facility. It is recognized as the oldest lumber company in the Twin Cities

Our Proven Process: Providing Support Beyond the Sale

Here for you when you need us

Our relationship doesn’t end once the transaction is complete. Shaw/Stewart is built on partnerships, and we believe in going the extra mile. Every time.

Our process

Millwork Shop

Our professional Millwork Shop is right on site at Shaw/Stewart Lumber Company in Minneapolis.

Explore Our Millwork Shop

Contact Us Today

Get in touch with Shaw/Stewart Lumber Company to see how we can partner together for your success.

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