The roots of the insurance agency date back to 1886 when a local attorney, and later State of Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice, John Barnes opened a law office in Pelican Rapids - now known as Rhinelander, Wisconsin. At this time, all insurance policies were handled by attorneys as they were complicated legal contracts just as they are today.
In 1900, A. W Weesner joined the agency becoming part owner of what would become "The largest and oldest insurance agency in Oneida County ... the Barnes-Weesner Agency, insurance, real estate and loans, with offices in Rhinelander.(1914)." They were located in the Merchant's State Bank, downtown at the intersection of Brown & Davenport Streets.
In 1920, after the death of the founding owners, staff of the agency incorporated under a new name, North Wisconsin Agency, also located at the bank building. The Estabrook family became majority owner in 1946. In 1962 a new office building designed by Architects L. F. & F. M. Coleman, of Chicago, Illinois, was constructed at 111 N. Brown Street. It still serves us well.
In 2008, the agency was sold to Brian Diel, Vice President & General Manager, who had been with the agency 20 years. The business now operates as Insurance Professionals of Northern Wisconsin, Inc. dba Diel Insurance Group.
Times change and Diel Insurance Group will continue doing what we and our predecessors have done best since 1886 - taking care of our customers. Locally owned, and locally involved, we proudly serve year-round and seasonal residents of Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, Minnesota & other states. We have specialized in seasonal homes and resorts for decades. Providing superior service has always been our reputation and our focus. We have the solutions you are looking for.
Doing business with a truly locally owned agency means more of your insurance dollars stay local. Our corporate headquarters continues to be in Rhinelander. We also believe volunteering time and other resources to community groups and charitable organizations is important to the continued growth and success of our Northwoods Wisconsin home.
