CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Gov. Cecil H. Underwood and Harpeth Resources Group officials today announced the opening of a $1.5 million wood furniture manufacturing facility in Sutton that will create more than 40 new jobs.

A newly formed manufacturer of hardwood furniture, Harpeth Resources Group will produce furniture for the home office and ready-to-assemble furniture markets.

Products will be distributed through national furniture retailers, mass merchandisers and major home centers.

The new company's products feature a water-based stain developed by Sherwin Williams. This new finish replaces conventional solvent-based stains, making Harpeth's products environmentally friendly for its employees and customers.

"We welcome Harpeth Resources Group to West Virginia's growing family of wood industry leaders," Gov. Underwood said. "We believe this is the start of a long-standing relationship between our state and Harpeth Resources Group, and we look forward to helping this company grow in the Mountain State."

The company has established operations in the former IMC building, occupying 65,000 square feet within the facility, and is eligible for training funding through the Governor's Guaranteed Work Force Program.

The Braxton County Development Authority, the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone of West Virginia and Mountain CAP of West Virginia partnered with state officials to package financing and provide working capital for the new company.

A native of Parkersburg and a 1970 graduate of West Virginia University, Harpeth Resources Group president Mike Metheny is dedicated to the success of this project.

"Braxton County provides our company with a terrific advantage because of its location in the heart of the world-renowned Appalachian Hardwood belt," Metheny said. "I express appreciation and gratitude to Gov. Underwood, the Braxton County Development Authority and the many agencies that worked tirelessly in bringing this project to fruition."

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