Our Story
31 Years Ago, Chehaw River Woodworks was founded…
Due to the impact of Hurricane Hugo on the Lowcountry, many treasured furniture pieces needed a woodworker’s attention. Harris Carter put his tools and his training to work. With the assistance of his wife, Beryl, and later his son Vernon, the business has become the largest provider of furniture restoration services in South Carolina.
After the year or so needed to rebuild and restore their Isle of Palms home and furnishings, the Carters were ready to open Chehaw River Woodworks to customers.
The company was named for the “Old Chehaw River” in the Ace River basin south of Edisto Island. January 1, 1991, the workspace on Venning Road was rented, and the work of repairing and refinishing furniture began.
This is where a retail storefront and wood repair shop were established. Over the next five years, the business expanded and grew-occupying two storefronts by 1995. The need to expand to a commercial space prompted the purchase of the “Whites Motor Court.” The Motel was renovated, and buildings were connected to house the new workshop.
In November 1991 the operation moved
to the Sea Island Shopping Center.
Like Father Like Son
Two years prior, the Carter’s son Vernon began repairing furniture. Beginning in February 1994, Vernon joined the company full time. Three significant milestones occurred during 1998- the company transitioned from spiral notebook to computer, the company was officially incorporated, and Mr. Joseph Mazyck joined the team. (2018 marked his 20th anniversary)
After ten years of service to his Father’s company the shop in Mt. Pleasant transitioned to Vernon’s leadership.
Harris and Beryl moved to Lake City, Harris’ home town. Not long after, the decision was made to expand to a second location. In June 2004 a warehouse was converted to a full service workshop that began serving the wider Pee Dee region of the state.
Expansions, New Services and Today
The acquisition of The Brass Shop of Mt. Pleasant in June 2013. Launching their sister division, “Chehaw River Brassworks,” expanding the company’s services to include refinishing and repair of copper, brass and silver.
Today Chehaw River Woodworks and a sister company Chehaw River Brassworks are still here for the people of the Lowcountry and far beyond. The company serves clients in New York, Florida, and regular customers closer by in Georgetown, Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. Two locations are equipped to provide our many restoration services.
If you’re in need of any furniture repairs, restoration, painting, or anything else, please reach out to us today. We love serving customers of The Lowcountry and its surrounding areas. If you can dream it, we can make it happen!