About Us
In 1976, we married and opened Center of the World Woodshop in downtown New Troy.
Our shop’s name was inspired by the town’s old Center of the World General Store (1860-1970). Customers of that store knew whether they were searching for a sack of nails or a nickel novel, they could find what they wanted at Center of the World. One of its early owners, Hosea Tirrell, summed up that fact with a sign that read, "If you can't find it at the Center of the World, seek no further." Hosea was first and foremost a merchant, but he was also a bit of a philosopher who theorized, "Wherever you are is the Center of the World."
Our Center of the World began as a combination woodshop, woodcarving school, and store — all located in one room. In those days, Terry built every piece himself, and Lorraine did all the hand-rubbed finishes.
Our current shop, built by Terry on the outskirts of New Troy in 1983, is surrounded by the hardwood trees that inspire his work. Today, Terry designs and creates heirloom quality furniture and cabinetry with the assistance of Phil Mielke and Don Harvey, both dedicated craftsmen. But Terry’s personal touch is on every piece that leaves the shop.
In 1995, we purchased a property in Harbert, where Lorraine assembled a rich collection of locally crafted furniture and home accessories. Terry remained focused on the design and creation of fine hardwood furniture and cabinetry.
In 2021, we moved our showroom yet again — this time back to the outskirts of New Troy, in rooms adjacent to the woodshop. Now visitors can peer through windows from the showroom into the shop, where Terry and Phil craft their beautiful creations. And we still offer a rich collection of locally handmade furniture and home accessories.
Pay us a visit! We would love to show you the most recent creations emerging from Center of the World Woodshop.
We are open by appointment and by chance.
Hosea Tirrel and his wife outside the original Center of the World, which was a general store.
Center of the World Woodshop Showroom today
