Store Manager Craig Hagel said current renovations encompass the east and south sides of the 4,000 square ft. facility, as well as major improvements to the outdoor lumberyard facilities. A crew from S & B General Construction of Erie is doing the building work, which is expected to be completed by the end of March. Upgrades include new siding and fascia, brick, and a color scheme changing from its previous tan to various shades of brown.
Another recent project by the company was the demolition of the old coal shed in the lumberyard, completed by Ironsite Construction, LLC. Hagel said this structure will soon be rebuilt for additional storage. Further lumberyard renovations in the works include a new drive-through facility and new roofing for several of the buildings.
In November 2025, the Prophetstown City Council approved an ordinance to use TIF District funds for Frary Lumber and reimbursing up to $18,000 for the estimated $36,550 worth of work to remodel the business’s exterior. Hagel said they haven’t done any upgrades at the Prophetstown location in years and these renovations are long overdue.
Frary Lumber was founded in Prophetstown, Illinois in 1896 by J.E. Frary. Originally a standalone family business known as Frary and Sons, it was acquired in April 1968 by Rock River Lumber and Grain, which continues to operate the business under the Frary Lumber name today.
Frary Lumber currently has stores and lumberyards in Sterling, Fulton and Prophetstown. All facilities carry a full compliment of building materials to fit your needs.
Prophetstown Store Timeline:
- 1896: Founded by J.E. Frary in Prophetstown.
- 1968: Purchased by Rock River Lumber and Grain.
- 1975: The Prophetstown store underwent a major enlargement to its current 4,000-square-foot size.
- 2005: Expansion into Sterling began with a showroom and hardware store, which grew into a full lumber yard by 2008.
- 2018: Further expanded by taking over operations at the Brinkman Building Center in Fulton.
- 2025-2026: Old building demolitions and renovations of Prophetstown storefront.
Check out their website, frarylumber.com, or Frary Lumber on Facebook for updates, information, and more!
A crew from S & B Construction of Erie on Wednesday, March 11th:
Prior to Renovation
