Bernhardt Furniture was established in 1889 by John Mathias Bernhardt and has been going strong for over 125 years. He spent many years out west in Oregon Territory. After a serious illness, traveling back home to Lenoir, North Carolina and working as a logger in the densely forested foothills of Grandfather Mountain. He went to work for Caldwell Land and Lumber Company and while working there he convinced them to build a railroad to move lumber and supplies. He then purchased his own sawmill and began buying timber. The next step of manufacturing his own furniture followed soon after bringing the birth of Bernhardt Furniture. He became known as a man of integrity, giving back to his community and for producing high quality furniture. A legacy was born. It was carried on and improved upon by his sons, George Bernhardt and John Christian Bernhardt, and eventually his grandson, Alex Bernhardt Sr. Through the years they grew, expanded, diversified, bought other companies, sold other companies, created divisions, and let them go. Two important names in all the comings and goings were Flair and Hibriten. Bernhardt Furniture remains a family owned company with Alex Bernhardt Jr. is now the 4th generation to be involved. They continue John Mathias’ legacy of integrity, high-quality furnishings, and giving back to their community.