Working on a higher plane - By Joe Goldeen, Stockton Record, CA
For Dick McClure, however, the most significant project Union Planing Mill has worked on during his tenure was at Wyntoon, the 50,000-acre Mount Shasta estate of the late publisher William Randolph Hearst designed by legendary architect Julia Morgan. The original buildings took 19 years to construct and were completed in 1943. Today it is used as a private retreat by members of the Hearst family.
McClure's team provided restoration during two years over 1999 and 2000, matching the work of the original craftsmen imported from Italy.
'It really tested us,' McClure said, noting that all the wood they used came from the surrounding forest.
Not only do Union Planing Mill's clients appreciate its work, but its employees give it the highest praise.
'It's the best union cabinet shop in Northern California,' said Ben Castellon, the shop foreman and a member of Millmen & Industrial Carpenters Local 1618 based in Sacramento.