Great Lakes Calcium Corporation, formerly Hurlbut Calcium and Chemical Company, traces its roots to Fred Hurlbut Sr., who formed the business in 1871 based on the economics of Great Lakes shipping following the Civil War. Fred Hurlbut Jr. took over the reigns in 1913, growing the company into a major coal and bulk distributor in Northeast Wisconsin.

Under the direction of Wesley H. Garner I, Charles Bennett, and Frederick J. Lenfestey, third generation family members, the Hurlbut Company diversified into the calcium products and concrete products businesses. Frederick L. Garner joined the company in 1965, and after serving in various capacities in the Hurlbut Company, he purchased Hurlbut Calcium and Chemical from the family in 1986. After changing the corporate name to Great Lakes Calcium Corporation to better reflect the company's identity, we have concentrated our efforts in reinvesting corporate profit in plant and equipment to produce a diverse and high quality product line. Wesley Hurlbut Garner II, the fifth generation family member to own Great Lakes Calcium Corporation, purchased the company in December of 1996. The company continues to grow and reinvest. Recent investments include modernization of drying equipment, updating process control systems, and adding additional storage capacity.