History

92 Years of Service 1917-2009

Founder Festus Lee Turlington

In 1917 F. L. Turlington left his family's farm to begin a lumber business on the company's present site. "Mr. Fes" as he was called saw the potential for a successful business due to the fine sawtimber in the area and the high demand for well manufactured southern yellow pine. Mr. Fes developed a reputation for manufacturing superior air-dried lumber and he helped the company grow to become a well known regional supplier.

Henry Lee & Thomas Turlington

After WWII Mr. Fes's sons, Henry Lee and Thomas, returned form the Air Force to help run the company. They began a period of modernization and mechanization that improved the quality of the lumber produced. They built the company's first kilns and began to slow dry lumber with steam heat. Slow kiln-drying improved the stability and quality of the lumber and opened new markets for the company's products.

Thomas Turlington, Past President

In 1954, Mr. Fes died. Later, in 1959, Henry Lee left the company to pursue other interests. Thomas Turlington became President and general manager. Thomas worked hard to improve the company through increased mechanization and marketing strategies. He also improved marketing by expanding into northern U.S. markets and exporting into western Europe.

Tom & Bill Turlington

Today, the company is managed by Thomas's sons, Tom and Bill Turlington. Bill is President and general manager. Tom is Vice President and sales manager. Both men are thoroughly involved in the day-to-day operation of the plant. You are highly likely to find them with their sleeves rolled up in the plant rather than sitting behind their desks.