The East Range Joint Powers Board has approved a $50,000 loan to Range Lumber Co from our East Range Participation Loan Program, which provides financing for businesses to enhance the economic base and vitality of East Range communities.
In July 2025, the owners of Red Top Construction, based in Aurora, purchased longtime local business Bradach Lumber, and renamed it Range Lumber Co. The business will operate out of its location at 216 W 3rd Ave N, providing quality building supplies that include hardwood, softwood, and reclaimed wood products.
The owners of Red Top Construction, Ben and Taylor Dickinson, were customers of Bradach Lumber before they seized the opportunity to purchase the company when it became available for sale.
“It’s been a great transition with the family that had it,” said Taylor in a September 2025 Mesabi Tribune article.
Since taking ownership of the lumberyard, the Dickinsons have made several major upgrades. They’ve reorganized inventory, added more plumbing products, and secured a new paint machine. They’ve also brought their community-centric focus, prioritizing unique products made in the United States.
“We’ve been really well received,” Taylor told the Mesabi Tribune, adding that customers are “grateful that we’re still in the community and owned by local people.”
The loan for Range Lumber emerged from the series of business visits we conducted in 2025. Northspan’s Cooper Grahek led the effort over the summer, meeting with a variety of East Range businesses to discuss local conditions and the regional business climate. After meeting with the Dickinsons, Cooper coordinated with Range Lumber to manage the loan process.
If you’re interested in business financing, or know of a local business that could benefit from a loan, we encourage you to learn more about the East Range Participation Loan Program and contact us with any questions.
