Conway, SC, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Kingston Joinery in Conway has unveiled a meticulously crafted replica of the historic Lincoln chair, showcasing traditional woodworking techniques. The project, two years in the making, involved skilled artisans dedicated to preserving the artistry of furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. The open house event allowed the community to appreciate the craftsmanship and learn more about woodworking practices that predate mass production.
Conway Unveils Replica Lincoln Chair After Craftsmanship Project
Kingston Joinery, located in Conway, South Carolina, recently unveiled a meticulously crafted replica of the historic Lincoln chair, a project that took skilled craftsman Denley Caughman and his apprentice, Dan Artz, two years to complete. The official debut of the chair took place on October 18, 2025, during an open house event from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Caughman, who is 77 years old, has dedicated his efforts at Kingston Joinery, which has been operating for three years as an interactive museum. This venue consists of a display room showcasing period furniture and a workshop where traditional woodworking methods are demonstrated. It is entirely volunteer-based, drawing on the talents of individuals like Artz, who has been with the joinery for two years, and Enilio Colon, a 13-year-old apprentice who has recently begun learning the craft.
The duo focused on creating replicas of bench-made furniture from the years 1760 to 1860, utilizing classic techniques such as the mortise and tenon joint while steering clear of modern fasteners. In preparation for the Lincoln chair, Caughman faced the challenge of developing patterns and plans based on available photographs, as he struggled to find complete examples of the original furniture.
Throughout the two-year project, Caughman and Artz typically spent just a few hours each Monday working on the chair. Their commitment to the craftsmanship reflects Caughman’s belief that furniture made before 1860 was handcrafted, contrasting sharply with the mass-produced furniture that began to dominate the market by 1890. Caughman himself made his first piece of furniture, a clock, at the age of 24, fostering a lifelong passion for woodworking.
The Kingston Joinery’s goal is to serve not only as a display of craftsmanship but also as a hands-on space where the public can learn about woodworking under expert guidance. Caughman, donning 1780s-style clothing, finds the work gratifying and emphasizes the joy and playfulness he and his team experience in their craft. They also prioritize sustainability by saving wood shavings for potential reuse in their projects.
The unveiling of the Lincoln chair marks a significant accomplishment for Kingston Joinery, which stands unique among museum-style spaces due to its focus on interaction and education in woodworking. As the joinery continues to engage with the public, events like the open house allow community members and visitors to appreciate the history and labor invested in handcrafted furnishings.
Background on Kingston Joinery
Kingston Joinery serves as a symbol of local craftsmanship, showcasing the evolution of furniture-making techniques over the centuries. Established within the Horry County Historical Society building on Third Avenue in Conway, the joinery highlights the artistry involved in woodworking prior to the industrial revolution, allowing visitors to connect with historical techniques that formed the foundation for modern craftsmanship.
Key Features of the Lincoln Chair Unveiling
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Craftsman | Denley Caughman |
| Apprentice | Dan Artz |
| Duration of Project | Two years |
| Materials Used | Traditional woodworking techniques |
| Event Date | October 18, 2025 |
| Joinery Established | Three years ago |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kingston Joinery?
Kingston Joinery is an interactive museum located in Concord, South Carolina, focusing on traditional woodworking methods and furniture from 1760 to 1860.
How long did it take to create the Lincoln chair replica?
The Lincoln chair replica took Denley Caughman and his apprentice Dan Artz two years to complete.
What techniques did Caughman use in the chair?
Caughman used traditional woodworking techniques, including the mortise and tenon joint, avoiding modern fasteners.
What can visitors experience at Kingston Joinery?
Visitors can experience hands-on woodworking under expert guidance in addition to viewing period furniture in the display room.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Kingston Joinery Unveils Replica Lincoln Chair
- Wikipedia: Lincoln Chair
- Post and Courier: Kingston Joinery Craftsmanship
- Google Search: Traditional Woodworking Techniques
- Post and Courier: Lincoln Chair Unveiling Event
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Furniture
- Post and Courier: Community Engagement at Kingston Joinery
- Google News: Woodworking History
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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