In Memory of Carl James Peterson – Founder of Peterson Sawmills

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Carl James Peterson on 11 September 2026, following a period of illness.

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 are deeply grateful to those who honoured Carl’s memory with their own hands and talent—Jake Peterson for creating the blade plaque, Quinn Peterson for handcrafting the coffin, and Kerris and Chris for coordinating with woodturner Peter Lynn to turn the urn.

We extend our sincere thanks to all who have supported Carl and Peterson Sawmills over the years. He will be greatly missed.