In memory of Carl James Peterson [NZ/AU]Friday 18 Sep 2026
Carl was the founder of Peterson Sawmills and the creator of the first commercial portable swingblade sawmill in 1988. From that breakthrough came the Peterson Sawmill brand—now recognised around the world for practical, innovative portable sawmills built for people who want to turn their own logs into valuable timber. Carl was far more than an inventor and entrepreneur. He was a creator, an adventurer, a determined problem-solver, and a man who lived a remarkably colourful life. His experiences and escapades were many, and his stories were as memorable as the first machines he designed. Carl’s ideas, energy and independent spirit shaped a business, a product category and a worldwide community of sawmill owners. His legacy will live on in the thousands of Peterson Sawmills operating across the world, and in the customers, distributors, staff, friends and family who knew him or benefited from his vision. His invention has literally shaped the portable sawmill world, as his original technology continues to be utilised in various other subsequent swingblade brands and models as well. We extend our sincere thanks to all who have supported Carl and Peterson Sawmills over the years. He will be greatly missed. This short video shares one chapter of Carl’s extraordinary journey. It recalls his experience of being caught up in Fiji’s 1987 military coup—an event that became part of the unlikely path leading to the development and birth of the first Peterson Sawmill in New Zealand the following year. More >> Source: Peterson Portable Sawmills | ||
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