Garden House Oak pictured in August 2022

Hurricane Ian

Garden House Oak pictured after Hurricane Ian, October 1, 2022.

On October 1st, 2022, during Hurricane Ian, Drayton Hall lost a legacy Live Oak Tree with an approximate age of 300 years old. This oak was known as the Garden House Oak as it was near John Drayton’s Garden House. Rather than disposing of the tree as firewood or mulch, we are collaborating with local artisans to create unique one-of-a-kind pieces. Custom pieces are available, email us at publicrelations@draytonhall.org

Meet the Artisans

Hannah Robinson

Hannah Robinson

Hannah is the lead artist in our fallen Garden House Live Oak tree project. Drayton Hall has been working with local craftsmen and artists on this special project since 2022. We are excited to announce the debut of some spectacular pieces. Tables, mantels, shelves, and countertops are available. Each piece is unique, resulting in a one-of-a-kind, beautifully crafted piece of history.

Fun fact: Hannah was an Interpreter here at Drayton Hall where she led field trips right under the Garden House Live Oak.

Koon’s SawMill

Koon’s Sawmill, Laurens, South Carolina

Securing a mill that was equipped to handle the size of the Garden House Oak was challenging.   During the Spring of 2023, the Garden House Oak was moved to Koon’s Sawmill in Laurens, South Carolina.  Koon’s Sawmill specializes in native wood species, custom millwork, and the specialized process of dry-kilned wood slabs.

Owner and operator, Chris Koon,  received a forestry degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in southern Georgia and has been in the forestry industry for over 20 years. Nearly 6 years ago, Chris decided to open the sawmill after realizing his dreams of working both in forestry and public services. An opportunity presented itself, and Chris began work with just himself and a sawmill. Today, the company has grown to include 3 employees and a wide range of product offerings.