Charles Russell

I was born in 1943 in rural middle Tennessee into a family of four sisters and two brothers, and no, I am not related to the famous artist and sculptor C.M. Russell.

As a young boy if I was to have toys, I had to make them, and with a little help from my father who was a whittler or one of two uncles, who could build anything, my collection of handmade guns, cars, etc., was the envy of every boy I knew.
Due to early necessity, to the present time I have always fixed or built things. After graduating high school I spent four happy years in the U.S. Navy, repairing computers, radar, missiles and gun and bomb sights. After I was discharged I attended the university obtaining a degree in engineering. I then went to work for Norfolk Southern Railroad and for the next thirty years I repaired or rebuilt bridges, buildings and culverts.

My retirement years began with building a very unique house in South Carolina in which I lived for six years. I began wood carving there in 2005 and have enjoyed carving since that time.

The call of family and grandchildren inspired the move to Jefferson City, Mo. for my wife and me. I have attended various carving shows and won several awards at the juried shows. I hope to continue carving for many years to come.