Restored 1907 Franklin Headlines Raleigh Showcase Celebrating Craftsmanship and the History Worth Saving

Mumford Restoration's Nov. 14 showcase connects historic objects and family heirlooms with the traditional trades—and future craftspeople—needed to preserve them.

RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A 1907 Franklin automobile restored by Mumford Restoration will be unveiled Saturday, November 14, at the company's third annual Antique Craftsman Showcase. The automobile anchors an afternoon exploring what inspires people to save sentimental and historic objects—and the craftsmanship required to preserve them.

The showcase takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. at Mumford Restoration's 17,000-square-foot headquarters, 8601 Ebenezer Church Road in Raleigh and is free to attend. More than 450 guests have registered, making it the company's largest showcase since the event began three years ago.

At 1:45 p.m., Bernard Mumford, founder and CEO of Mumford Restoration, and Franklin owner Michael Ortiz will unveil the automobile, discuss its restoration and answer audience questions.

"Whether it's a 1907 automobile or a chair that belonged to someone's grandmother, there's a reason someone decided it was worth saving," said Mumford. "Our work begins with understanding that reason. Then we bring the craftsmanship needed to preserve the piece—and teach those skills so someone else can continue the work."

That connection between preserving family and cultural history and passing on knowledge runs throughout the showcase. Visitors will explore antiques and heirlooms at different stages of restoration, speak with traditional artisans and master craftspeople, and watch demonstrations of the techniques behind their work.

Participating specialties include antique wood and furniture restoration, fine woodworking, carving, preservation carpentry, caning and seat weaving, antique upholstery, antique radio and phonograph restoration, antique lighting, antique pianos, antique firearms, books, art, metalwork, and decorative and specialty restoration.

For history enthusiasts, antique collectors and professional preservationists, the afternoon offers opportunities to examine both finished work and the decisions, materials and hand skills involved in restoration.

Preserving Objects, Places and Traditional Trades

The guest speaker program extends the conversation from individual heirlooms and historic objects to stewardship of traditional craftsmanship and architectural heritage.

At 2:15 p.m., Christina Butler, Provost and Professor of Historic Preservation, and Charlie Moore, Wood Trades Professor, of the American College of the Building Arts in Charleston, South Carolina, will discuss preserving traditional craftsmanship and the trades.

At 2:45 p.m., George Smart, founder and CEO of USModernist, will discuss the importance of preserving Mid-Century Modern history through buildings and objects.

Mumford will also discuss Historic Restoration Apprenticeship (HRA), an independent Raleigh-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving traditional restoration skills through hands-on training and mentorship. By connecting aspiring craftspeople with experienced artisans through real-world restoration projects, HRA helps pass knowledge, techniques and craftsmanship to the next generation. Its work includes an apprenticeship program, public classes and community partnerships.

Founded in 1982, Mumford Restoration is marking 44 years of restoring sentimental furniture, antiques and heirlooms. The showcase brings its preservation mission into view through the objects entrusted to its craftspeople and the traditional skills they practice and teach.

Event and Media Information

The Antique Craftsman Showcase takes place Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. Eastern, at 8601 Ebenezer Church Road, Raleigh, NC 27617. Admission is free.

Reporters, photographers and television crews are invited to cover live artisan demonstrations, the 1:45 p.m. Franklin unveiling, and the preservation speaker program. Contact Joanna Bishop-Tyer to coordinate coverage and interview requests.

More information: mumfordrestoration.com/mumford-restoration-craftsman-showcase-2026

About Mumford Restoration

Family-owned and operated since 1982, Mumford Restoration specializes in the authentic, period-correct restoration and repair of sentimental furniture, family heirlooms, and antiques. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the company serves families, museums, and historical societies throughout the state and across the United States. Its team includes third-generation craftspeople and brings more than 150 years of combined experience to preserving the craftsmanship, history, and personal meaning of treasured pieces. For more information, visit mumfordrestoration.com.

SOURCE Mumford Restoration