Northern Cement Drain Tile Company of Starbuck made concrete blocks for residential, commercial, farm, silo and decorative use. It opened in 1916 with Charles Turnell, president, manager and engineer; and Gust W. Peterson and George H. Snyder. Emil and Victor Larson later purchased the company. Earl Larson and sons, Darryl and Roger Larson, also operated the company. The block factory ceased production in 1985.