It’s one of those little grocery stores on the way to the Oregon Coast that struggles to gather business. Folks are either in a hurry to get to the ‘beach’ or then in a hurry to just get home. So they often drive on by. Yet, for 28 years Charlie Knight at Knights Tackle Box has done alright with the help of his loving family. The locals know Knights is a down to earth place to show off your catch of the day or to just stand and visit awhile about life.
This weekend, I had occasion to go to Charlie’s store for a half case and to gather fishing intell for the nearby coastal rivers. We got the beer, good fishing info, but more importantly we were exposed to another side of Charlie that needs to be recognized…his wood carvings. Stunning creations made from nearby Alder and Birch, but with one healthy arm/hand, having succumbed to a stroke 15 years ago. I was fascinated to learn more about Charlie’s creations and history.
Charlie was born and raised in Oregon. At a very young age, Charlie learned to carve from an elderly gent named Mr. Perry down by Cottage Grove. Interestingly, Mr. Perry had a storied life and related stories to Charlie about being a young scout for the Army in the wild West. Over the years, Charlie maintained his interest in carving, wood working and all things nature. But, as so often happens, Charlie entered the business world and there he toiled for a good many years.
Eventually, with the support of his lovely wife, Charlie left the finance world seeking another avenue/business where by he could also create carvings to sell. The idea of a store and eventually a tackle shop (his wife’s idea) developed. The stroke would have set many back permanently, but Charlie persevered and developed new means to carve and transform wood into rustic pieces of Pacific Northwest art that display the wildlife and rugged characteristics of the coastal mountains of Oregon.
I appreciate Charlie Knight giving me a tour of his work area. The tools, sawdust, wood, stains and the view from his shop window of the river were inspiring!
Please consider commissioning Charlie to create a magnificent carved frame that surrounds a mirror. Perfect for home, that cabin in the mountains or at the coast. Here is Charlie’s contact information:
Knights Tackle Shop (Charles Knight), Box 6316, Salmon River Hwy, Otis, Oregon 97368. (541) 994-8137 Facebook: Knights Tackle Box
