With nearly 40 years of wood crafting experience, Johnny McGrew was the consummate craftsman. Influenced by local cabinet maker Walter Vincent, McGrew developed a successful creative career making furniture, musical instruments, and other hand carved figurines. His materials of choice included cherry, walnut, and maple. As his reputation continued to grow, McGrew’s extraordinary talent was featured in several magazines, television programs, and newspaper articles.

McGrew’s unique figurines have sold all over the world. A collection of his Christmas ornaments was chosen to be displayed on the White House Christmas Tree. Two of his Patriotic Santa Claus carvings were given to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. The Museum is honored to hold several of McGrew’s pieces in our permanent collection, which are on display in the Folk Art exhibit. Wood working was his life’s work, and the fine pieces McGrew crafted will remain collectible for many years to come.