Rawson Custom Woodworks, LLC, proudly continues the Rockford, Illinois tradition of woodworking and craftsmanship, a tradition which dates back over one hundred years.

"Our Rockford, Illinois"

In 1834, between the cities of Chicago and Galena, Rockford, Illinois was established. This small settlement quickly became a city of industry. By the 1880’s, Rockford became the home of a bustling furniture and woodworking industry. This industry continued to grow, and “in the first half of the 20th century, Rockford was the second largest furniture-manufacturing center in the United States.” Through the rest of the 20th century, Rockford shifted from producing furniture to producing heavy machinery. During this time such inventions were produced in Rockford as the Nelson knitting machine, the dollar bill changer, and the electronic dartboard. Today, Rockford, Illinois is the third largest city in the state of Illinois (GoRockford.com).

"Our Rockford Heritage"

Rawson Custom Woodworks, LLC was born and built in Rockford, Illinois. We know this city. We know its hardships, and we know its strengths. For several years, we have supported our community by working with local organizations such as Sharefest, Rockford First, 4-H, and Hope for Haitians. Our shop cherishes the rich history and tradition of our city by continuing the hard work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit that has made Rockford, Illinois a great city.

"Our Rockford Story"

Brian Rawson, the founder of Rawson Custom Woodworks, LLC, was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois. At an early age, his German parents (who owned and operated a custom fur shop in Rockford, Illinois) taught him the Rockford tradition of hard work and humble diligence. During his young adulthood, Mr. Rawson entered into Rockford’s machining industry. However, like many others in Rockford, Mr. Rawson was displaced by the severe unemployment of the 1980’s. However, this displacement did not slow Mr. Rawson down. Inspired by his family heritage, Mr. Rawson took his machinery skill and Rockford work ethic and began a humble woodworking business.