For generations the shop at Restoration Woodworks has been a focal point for the cultivation of work ethic, excellence, family pride and a faith rooted in God through Jesus. The shop, originally known as “The Cabinet Shop” was built by Kenneth Cleveland, who was already well-known in the area for his craftsmanship. Cleveland, a WWII vet, grew both the Cabinet shop and his family until his death in the late 80’s, after which the doors to the cabinet shop closed to the public.
Although no longer producing fine woodwork for sale to the public, the shop continued to create an atmosphere that fostered and cultivated relationships, provided mentorship, and created cherished memories as Kenneth’s son, Charles (Dick) Cleveland took ownership of the wood shop he grew up working in. Dick Cleveland, also a well known business owner in the area, used the shop as a hobby shop of sorts.
Also a skilled craftsman and Korean War vet, Cleveland used the space primarily to build and restore airplanes, having earned his pilot’s license some years earlier.
Cleveland opened the shop to his family, to share in the experience of creativity, discovery, craftsmanship, and family togetherness. Most notably his oldest three grandchildren, having moved into his father, Kenneth’s house, to care for his mother as she battled Alzheimer. It was through this medium that Daniel McCollum began to learn the intricacies of woodcraft and saw the example of good character.
Daniel McCollum, current owner and operator of The Cabinet Shop, not only received the mentorship of his grandfather through his time at the cabinet shop, but Cleveland also gave Daniel the opportunity to work in his Steel Fabrication businesses, as a means to produce a strong work ethic, expand his skill set and, most importantly, be guided and mentored by a diverse group of men.
McCollum continued to work for his grandfather until Dec 1998, when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. McCollum volunteered for overseas duty his first year and subsequently requested orders for the Marine Corps MPF squadron, a highly deployable unit.
In 2003 McCollum was given an opportunity to continue his government service in a paramilitary organization, accepting a contract in the mid-east during Operation Iraqi Freedom through the beginning of Enduring Freedom. Early on McCollum supported convoy movements into the northern Iraqi war zone and later moved into force protection of sensitive items and personnel.
While overseas, McCollum was contacted by the National Nuclear Security Agency with a potential job offer. McCollum accepted and spent the rest of his time in government service as Nuclear security in a variety of roles such as heavy weapons and armored vehicle operator, special response team leader, protected area sector Captain, and tactical commander.
