George began his wood designing while making his toys as a child. He watched construction equipment working on the PA turnpike and then made a smaller replica to use as toys.
He was inspired to build a rocker that could not upset after flipping over in his mother's rocking chair.
At age 15 George helped build a steer shed with his father.
Honduras Voluntary Service:
George taught local people and pastors how to create replicas of their fishing boats to sell to tourists, creating income for their families.
November, 1968, George married his wife Ava Lee Longenecker and moved to Harman, West Virginia. While in WV, George built houses, drift wood lamps with wooden shades, and cross cut stools for a living.
1950-1956
1958
1965-1967
1968-1969
1969-1983
1970
1971
1973
Display and demonstrated furniture at Springs Folk Festival, Springs, PA.
Built first high chair and chairs for growing family.
George enjoyed teaching woodworking at Teen Challenge and building wood furniture in the Dutch Family Festival at the Guernsey Barn. He built his first rockers, tables and chairs at this time.
George started his business full time at 4 Center Square, Elizabethtown, PA. He would design and build the furniture at a local rented barn.
December, 1973, George moved the store to:
20 S. Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA.
Fall of 1973
1975
Woodworking Shop was moved to an old dairy barn at 9 Reichs Church Road, Marietta, PA.
Our current location.
The showroom was moved into a house at 9 Reichs Church Road, Marietta, PA.
We started giving shop tours to show customers how quality furniture is made.
Spring 1986
Fall 1986
A 4-car garage was remodeled for present showroom.
Installed a 55KW backup generator.
1989
1999
Friends, employees and family gathered to help and within three months the wood working shop, wood kiln, and extended showroom were rebuilt.
The Museum/Lumber pre-drier containing originals and old items for the Martin family was built.
A new building for the pre-drying of lumber was built - the first stage in the making of quality furniture.
1992
2004
A Well Spring House was built to house a recently drilled high capacity well. It also provides a quiet place to get away.
George Martin retires from ownership. The business is transferred to the next generation: Chris & Juanita Horst (son-in-law & daughter)
July 2008
Timeline - History of George Martin
and George's Woodcrafts
Fire!!! - The woodworking shop was completely destroyed.