The 1945 photograph, provided by Bert Peterson, shows the company’s founder, Lawrence “Hap” Peterson, along with Lawrence “Dutch” Mellin and Herman “Chick” Bettiga.

In its early years, the business operated out of a rented building on the northeast corner of U.S. 2 and Stephenson Street in Norway.

“I’ve always found it a bit humorous that the old rented building had a wooden floor, which was not a good match for a welding operation,” said Bert Peterson, the founder’s son. “The flooring would sometimes catch fire from welding sparks and torch flames.”

After a few years in business, Peterson built a new building a few blocks south on Stephenson Street.

Shown is the portable welder Lawrence “Hap” Peterson, founder of Peterson’s Welding in Norway, built for onsite welding jobs. The welder was powered by a Buick engine. (Photo provided by Bert Peterson of Norway)

Peterson noted that the building has been expanded a couple time over the years.

The business owner also built a portable welder that could be towed behind a vehicle for on-site welding jobs.

“It consisted of an electrical generator powered by a Buick engine,” he noted.

The business provided custom steel fabrication and repair of metal items such as tools, including farm, mining, and logging equipment.

In later years, the company produced custom stair railings, log loaders mounted on logging trucks, and other fabricated items.

“For several years it sold its own brand of steel logging drays,” Peterson said.

They have produced protective covers for several of the old mine shafts in the area. These grids allow bats to enter and exit while preventing people from falling in, he added.

Today, Roger and Andrew Peterson, grandsons of founder Lawrence “Hap” Peterson, operate the business at 501 Stephenson St.

———

“Remember when?” appears every Wednesday in The Daily News. Those with suggestions or historical photographs they would like to submit can email Terri Castelaz at tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.