Barnwood Builders returned to WVU Jackson’s Mill this spring to film an episode called “The Finished Product,” which featured the new heritage and artisan center. The episode first aired Sunday on the DIY Network.

WVU alumnus and host of Barnwood Builders Mark Bowe coordinated the project to help bring the new center to life. The original show was taped in April 2018 at Jackson’s Mill where participants joined together in a team-building exercise to assemble the timber frame structure.

Made of 350-year-old wood, the timber frame was constructed offsite at the company’s “Boneyard” and transported in pieces to the site. A team from Jackson’s Mill coordinated the site prep work, and Bowe and his crew instructed the WVU team – using tools and techniques from pioneer days – on completing the necessary construction, raising the structure and putting on the finishing touches.

The 16-by-20-foot structure will be used as a heritage arts education center where 4-H’ers and other visitors will learn about Appalachian heritage, including candle making, quilting, cooking and more. The building also will serve as a home for Appalachian artisans who want to showcase their work and teach others about their craft.

A team from Jackson’s Mill worked with contractors to complete the building.

Led by President Gordon Gee, about 25 leaders from around the University, including deans, vice presidents, staff and students, participated in the build.

Barnwood Builders donated the structure to WVU Jackson’s Mill and is working with WVU to offer this one-of-a-kind team-building experience to others.

Bowe worked as a coal miner while completing his bachelor’s degree at B&E, and later received a master’s degree in safety management from the Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.

He founded his company, Antique Cabins and Barns, in 1995. He and his longtime crew have reclaimed more than 400 pioneer-era structures.