Employee Feature

Linda wire-brushing a baker’s rack back in the ‘80s . Today she works as the Starbucks Account Manager.

linda seatz

A native and lifelong resident of nearby Ashe County, NC, Linda Seatz was one of the first two employees hired by Charleston Forge founders, Susan and Art Barber, when they started the company in 1984.

“We might not be here today had Linda not joined us all those years ago.” says Art. “The pride she takes in doing whatever job we give her has set an example for all those who work around her, even to this day. She is what a ‘family business’ is all about.”

“The other employee was the welder,” Linda says when talking about the early years. “Once it was welded I did the grinding, I washed it before it was painted, and then I painted it, then I boxed it and called the carrier to come pick it up.”

Linda has worked in many other positions over the years, including as a section manager and as the purchasing agent. Currently she is the Starbucks Account Manager.

“In 2018 I said I was going to retire but I didn’t really leave, I just started working part time,” she says. “There have been a lot of good times — I’ve enjoyed everything and learned a lot along the way.”

Check out our weekly Instagram and Facebook Reels that we call #FireFriday. The Charleston Forge team works hard every day to get each built-to-order piece of furniture shipped and delivered. #FireFriday helps to tell that story. You can find these quick, fun videos on our social media platforms including our YouTube FireFriday playlist. Come be social with us and give this hardworking team a ‘Like’ and ‘Share’.

Fire Friday

There are 45 pieces that make up a Springhouse Étagère.

These are the 13 you don’t see.

Pictured here are 13 of the dozens on our team who had a hand in creating this Springhouse Étagère. From product design to forging and finishing, each

Charleston Forge piece is made to order by hand by skilled craftsmen like these.

From left: Cameron (Grinding), Glenda (Wood finishing), Lucas (Forging), Bryan (Boxing), Jesse (Assembly), Crystal (Handpaint), Jed (Cutting), Brady (Powder Coat), Gary (Post-Grinding Inspector), Wilson (Design), Josh (Welder), Tim (Wheelabrator), Randy (Shipping).