Thursday, April 2, 2026 |
Photo – Desk refinished by Curtis – Courtesy Robert Curtis
A Hanna resident is using his woodworking experience to benefit local schools.
Military veteran and Hanna resident Robert Curtis is seeking donations of wooden furniture to restore. Curtis told Bigfoot99 he hopes to use his carpentry skills to raise money for the town’s schools.
After spending 28 years in the military, Curtis moved to Rawlins to work as a nurse at the Wyoming State Penitentiary. However, after nearly three decades of service, including time deployed to the Middle East, the federal government declared him disabled and he was forced into retirement. Curtis said carpentry helps with his post‑traumatic stress disorder.
Curtis said he’ll donate 90 percent of the sale price of any piece of furniture he refurbishes to Hanna schools, keeping the remaining 10 percent to cover the cost of supplies. He said H‑E‑M High School Principal Eli Hobbs supports the idea provided the money isn’t earmarked for a specific use.
Curtis explained his restoration process, saying he begins with a chemical‑free sanding before moving on to the framework of the piece.
A layer of stain or paint serves as the finishing touch. To streamline the refurbishment process, Curtis said he’s transformed his garage into a woodworking shop.
Curtis said he hasn’t decided how he’ll sell his finished projects, though Facebook Marketplace is a likely option. Curtis said he also plans to reach out to H‑E‑M High School again to discuss holding an auction in the school’s parking lot.
To donate a piece of furniture for Curtis to refurbish and sell, or to inquire about purchasing a finished piece, call 397‑8051.
