One of the Great Smoky Mountains’ most remarkable residents was Aden Carver, born at Smokemont in 1844. Carver lived to be 101 years old. He was a farmer, craftsman, millwright, and deacon of the Oconaluftee Baptist Church.

He lived through 5 American Wars. During the Civil War he served in the Confederate Homeguard. He was rejected when he tried to enlist for World War I (at age 76). At the age of 90, however, he was allowed to join the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).

At 92 he helped restore Mingus Mill, which he’d helped build in 1885-86. The secret to a long life? “Staying on my feet and working hard,” said Carver.

Here’s a photo of Aden Carver, 1844-1945, with the rocking chair he built.

A rocker made by Aden is in the park’s historical artifact collection. In honor of the Park’s 75th, Randy Ogle has reproduced Aden’s fine chair.

Randy’s family has been making chairs for three generations. Each rocker is made from solid maple with a hand-woven seat and is signed by Mr. Ogle. Click on the photo below to watch Randy work on a rocker and explain about his craft.