Like the city of Eau Claire itself, the Donnellan family can trace its existence in Eau Claire back to the lumber boom of the region’s earliest days.

In the 1870s, Irish immigrant Daniel H. Donnellan passed through the Chippewa Valley on his way to St. Paul. He was so impressed by what he saw that he quickly returned and became involved in the lumber business.

As the years passed and lumbering declined, Donnellan turned his attention to selling farms and timber lands. Daniel’s son, Charles, followed him into the real estate business, developing much of what is now the Eastside Hill neighborhood in the early 20th century.

In 1948, after returning from distinguished service in World War II, Charles’ son, David S. Donnellan, founded the current business, Donnellan Real Estate. He became a community leader including serving 10 years on the Eau Claire City Council – four years as president. David’s success in residential and commercial real estate drew him accolades – he was the Board President and Realtor of the Year in 1977.

His son Ned joined him in 1980 and later joined by his other son Dan in 1998. Ned took ownership in 1991. He was Board President and Realtor of the Year in 1991 and continues to serve on various boards throughout our city. Now a fifth generation – Megan and David, Ned’s children – are Realtors with Donnellan, continuing the family’s commitment to helping Eau Claire grow.