A local ownership group has purchased Sangamon Reclaimed from founder and former president, Brian Frieze, with an eye toward growth and further community engagement. Sangamon Woodworks, LLC, is managed by Gregg Harwood, who has owned several businesses over the years, including Thermionics Corp. and Tele-Sav Communications.

Sangamon Reclaimed, which uses wood from old buildings to make furniture and other décor for commercial and residential spaces, was founded in 2014 by Frieze, a Springfield firefighter and US Air Force veteran.

“The business has achieved significant growth since I founded it in 2014; I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from the community,” said Frieze. “I’m looking forward to seeing the next chapter unfold for both Sangamon Reclaimed and my family.”

Frieze added, “Gregg and his family are no strangers to entrepreneurship and the ebb and flow of doing business. I believe Sangamon Reclaimed is going to benefit from his experience.”

The business has relocated to a larger facility at 2130 E. Clear Lake Ave. “This is a more visible spot with increased foot traffic and allows us to grow in terms of employees, equipment and production,” said Harwood.

“Brian has done a fantastic job bringing Sangamon Reclaimed to where it is now, and I am honored that he chose my family to oversee its future. We cannot wait to work with the community in Springfield and the surrounding areas to ensure the heart of this organization remains, designing and handcrafting heirloom-quality furniture that will last generations.”

All staff will remain in their current roles, and Frieze will stay onboard for the foreseeable future to assist with the transition.