Lyle Wheeler Wins Top Prize
Congratulations, Lyle!
Lyle Wheeler recently received well-earned recognition for his ladder-back rocking chairs by winning the top prize in the 2019 Made in NC Awards. Many thanks to Our State Magazine for recognizing quality talent and for capturing the story of this year's NC Maker.
Read full interview >>
Congratulations, Lyle!
From frame to woven seat, Lyle's chairs are made from native Appalachian hardwoods of WNC. He uses hand tools, some passed down in his family for five generations. These chairs showcase the traditions of our pre-industrial society and the true quality of American Craft.
For more information, visit Lyle's website:
"From the materials, to the style, to the design of the chair- I'm stuck in the 1890s."
Lyle Wheeler (Our State Magazine Interview)
Wheeler in the Guild
For 29 years, Wheeler has been a participating member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. You will find him at (at least) three of our special events each year: Wood Day, The Summer Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, and Heritage Weekend. Look for the man in denim overalls, working on a 18th century shaving horse, or sitting in one of his rocking chairs carving his favorite mountain folk toy, the Whimmy Diddle.
Speaking of Whimmy Diddle....
This year marked the second year in a row Lyle defended his title as Champion, professional division, in the annual World Gee Haw Whimmy Diddle Competition, and his 5th time winning overall. Watch Wheeler compete (with his own handcarved whimmy diddle) at next year's Heritage Weekend, a celebration of Appalachian crafts, music, and culture.
