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The journey of Gordon-Van Tine begins not with architecture or design but with timber. The company’s roots trace back to 1866 when UN Roberts established a sawmill in Davenport, Iowa. Situated at a vital transportation juncture along the Mississippi River, Davenport was a thriving hub during America’s post-Civil War boom, fueled by expanding railroads and burgeoning construction.
Roberts’ sawmill flourished by supplying lumber to a nation in rapid expansion. By the turn of the 20th century, the business had evolved into a prominent lumber company, setting a strong foundation for what would become Gordon-Van Tine in 1907. Named after two influential supporters—one named Gordon, the other Van Tine—the company initially operated quietly, providing high-quality lumber and carpentry materials.