First Place South Region
Greg Pennington
Henderson, TN

Philadelphia Highboy

On April 7, 2006, a devastating tornado ripped through Greg Pennington's hometown and came dangerously close to his home. While safe from the disaster, Greg didn't have to look far to see many homes and trees destroyed. He decided to salvage as many logs as possible.

Just two months later, Greg ordered a new LT40 sawmill and was processing those rescued logs by July.

A year later his lumber was dry enough to start a project. He pulled the best boards from his stack and started to build a highboy dresser. Measuring 78" high x 42" wide x 23" deep, this dresser is the first project Greg took from tree to finished piece. "This was my chance to build something very special for my wife who rarely benefits from my woodworking," said Greg.

The 18th century design features walnut as the primary wood for the front, sides and moldings. The drawers, runners, and back are made from poplar. "The Wood-Mizer has allowed endless possibilities by being able to quarter saw and book match panels," said Greg. With the boards he cut, the grain flows through the piece and helps your eye overlook glue lines. In addition, Greg has over 230 hand cut dovetails for the drawers and upper case.

His wife's dresser is displayed in their home with a reminder that "Wood-Mizer brings good things from disaster."