I’m a dedicated woodworker who primarily uses unplugged hand tools. I hail from the great state of Virginia and currently reside in Lilburn, Georgia, with my wonderful wife, with whom I have shared nearly 30 years of marriage. After serving in the U.S. Army in the late 1970s, I transitioned confidently to a rewarding career as a firefighter with the Richmond County Fire Department in Augusta, Georgia. Later, I utilized my skills in the cabinet industry as a Draftsman during the mid to late 1980s, and in 1993, I embraced a new challenge as a Funeral Director.
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been raised by a father who possessed unmatched common sense. Although unschooled, my dad was highly capable and worked as an automobile mechanic, ensuring our family had everything we needed and more. His talent for transforming discarded vehicles into valuable assets was remarkable. With just a pair of pliers, a 9/16” wrench, a battery, and a can of gas, he could revive seemingly useless cars and drive them back to the shop. After some creative repairs and a fresh coat of paint, he would sell those “junk” cars to skeptics for a significant profit. That was the magic of my dad!
Coming from modest beginnings has certainly influenced my choice to pursue unplugged woodworking. Growing up in Virginia, a state rich with colonial history, deepened my appreciation for this craft. While my tools may not grace the cover of the latest Fine Woodworking magazine or carry the name of a renowned woodworking guru, they are reliable and effective. They are clean and sharp where necessary and consistently deliver the results I expect. My father instilled in me the belief that mastering a tool is far more critical than the tool itself.
Although this philosophy may not resonate with everyone, my workshop is my sanctuary. The tranquility I find there is profound. Nothing quite compares to the satisfying click of an auger bit emerging from the back of a workpiece, which serves as a testament to my craftsmanship and dedication.
For the past ten years, I have been focused on building vernacular furniture in the style of the 17th century. Please join me as I document my endeavors.