Mark Bowe: The Man Behind “Barnwood Builders” and His Journey Through Craftsmanship and Community

Mark Bowe, a name synonymous with craftsmanship and dedication, was born on March 5, 1970, in Glasgow, West Virginia.

He has made a name for himself as a successful businessman and television personality, primarily through his work on the Magnolia Network show “Barnwood Builders.”

The show embodies the ethos of hard work, kindness, and pride, values that Mark holds dear.

 

 

Mark’s journey is a testament to his hard work and perseverance.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from West Virginia University while simultaneously working as a coal miner.

This dual commitment reflects not only his dedication to education but also his strong work ethic.

He is not just a businessman; he is a self-proclaimed craftsman with a passion for history and an amateur breakdancer.

His academic pursuits continued as he obtained a master’s degree in safety management from the same university.

In 1995, Mark took a significant step in his career by founding Antique Cabins and Barns, a venture that specializes in the restoration of historical structures.

This business eventually evolved into Barnwood Living, which continues to thrive today.

Mark’s love for history and craftsmanship is evident in every project he undertakes.

When he is not filming, he enjoys engaging with audiences through speaking engagements, sharing his knowledge and passion for restoration and preservation.

“Barnwood Builders,” the documentary series that has captured the hearts of many, follows a dedicated team as they transform historical log cabins and barns into modern homes.

Premiering on November 1, 2013, the show is broadcast on various networks including the Discovery Channel and the Magnolia Network.

Mark’s team focuses on restoring and reclaiming pioneer-era structures in the eastern United States, and the show’s straightforward yet effective premise has attracted millions of viewers.

 

 

The cast of “Barnwood Builders” includes long-time members such as Sean McCord, Johnny Jet, Sherman Thompson, Tim Rose, Graham Ferguson, and Alex Webb, who joined in the third season to replace Brian Buckner.

The show has maintained a consistent cast, which has contributed to its charm and authenticity.

In the season six finale, the production team introduced a unique twist by inviting special guests to discuss their work and reveal previously unseen footage, keeping the audience engaged and intrigued.

The show’s seventh season culminated in a remarkable project where the builders constructed a massive timber frame house for Healing Waters, a charity dedicated to helping veterans recover from battle injuries, including PTSD.

This project exemplifies Mark’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

In the first episode of season nine, Mark collaborated with administrators and teachers from West Virginia University to build a cabin that showcased the history of America’s early days, further cementing his dedication to education and heritage.

Mark is passionate about his roots and has expressed a desire to change the stereotype associated with the term “hillbilly.

” In an interview, he stated, “I want to champion West Virginia.

” Initially, the network prohibited the use of the term in the first season, but they later embraced it.

Mark believes that being a hillbilly signifies strong family ties, hard work, perseverance, and fortitude.

The cast proudly identifies as hillbillies, celebrating their heritage and the values it represents.

Over the years, there have been rumors surrounding the cast, particularly concerning Brian Buckner, who mysteriously disappeared after season two.

Fans speculated about his well-being, leading to widespread rumors of his death.

However, the truth emerged when cast members confirmed that Brian was alive and well, having moved away from West Virginia.

Brian’s absence from the show was attributed to his discomfort with fame, as he has no social media presence and did not address the rumors directly.

The show’s social media team has left the door open for his potential return, expressing their fondness for him.

 

 

Mark’s role on “Barnwood Builders” has evolved over time.

He is not merely the host and leader of the building team; he has taken on the responsibilities of a producer as well.

In an interview with Greenbriar Valley, he explained, “Every show has a story arc that I helped develop.

” Mark is actively involved in selecting the families featured in each episode and the crafts that will be highlighted, ensuring that the stories told are authentic and meaningful.

While the show primarily takes place in West Virginia, the “Barnwood Builders” team has extended their projects to Missouri and Texas, showcasing their skills in various locations.

The idea for the show originated from a chance encounter between Mark and a client who sought a cabin in upstate New York.

This client turned out to be a film producer working for Ken Burns, which ultimately led to the creation of the series.

Many viewers often wonder how Mark discovers the properties he renovates.

Despite the publicity that “Barnwood Builders” generates, most of Mark’s projects come through word of mouth.

He actively engages with his community and showcases his work, which helps him connect with potential clients.

Interestingly, many of the projects featured on the show are available for public rental, allowing fans to experience the charm of these restored structures firsthand.

An intriguing fact about “Barnwood Builders” is that the pilot episode was filmed in 2005, nearly a decade before the show officially aired.

Mark mentioned in an interview with Richmond Magazine that the pilot was a 20-minute documentary entered into various film festivals, highlighting the long journey that led to the show’s success.

On a personal note, Mark is married to Cindy Lavender Bowe, who was born in 1971.

Cindy has her own accomplishments, having served as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates, representing District 42.

She assumed office on December 1, 2020, and served until the following year.

Cindy also ran for re-election but lost in the general election on November 3, 2020.

Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in social studies education from West Virginia University’s Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in leadership studies from Marshall University.

 

 

Cindy’s professional experience spans non-profit management and teaching in Kanawha County Public Schools.

In 2019, she was assigned to several committees, including the House Education Committee and the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

Mark and Cindy have one son, Atticus, and they moved to Lewisburg in 2001, drawn by the town’s charm and community spirit.

Mark’s journey reflects not only his dedication to craftsmanship but also his commitment to his community and family.

He often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media, showcasing his family and the camaraderie shared with his cast members.

The bond among the cast is evident, and they continue to support one another both on and off the screen.

As for the rest of the “Barnwood Builders” cast, life goes on as usual between filming.

Johnny, the eldest cast member at 71, has embraced a quieter life in West Virginia after relocating from Chicago.

Though he posts sporadically on social media, he primarily uses it to promote his work.

Tim, another mainstay of the show, has chosen to stay off social media, preferring to keep his personal life private.

His skills as a trapper, hunter, and cook have made him a valuable asset to the team.

Alex, who joined the cast early on, has a background in engineering and military training.

Despite some speculation about his exit from the show, Mark’s social media posts confirm the cast’s continued unity.

Graham, a former landscaping expert, has also remained involved, albeit quietly, as he balances his responsibilities as a producer.

 

Sean, the talented producer and writer, has a rich history in the industry, with early works including “Garbage Moguls” and “Mad Scientists.

” His theatrical background adds a unique dimension to the show, and he currently resides in South Orange, New Jersey, with his family.

In conclusion, Mark Bowe’s journey from a coal miner to a celebrated television personality and craftsman is a remarkable story of hard work, community, and passion.

Through “Barnwood Builders,” he has not only revitalized historical structures but also changed perceptions about his home state of West Virginia.

With his family and dedicated cast by his side, Mark continues to inspire others with his commitment to craftsmanship and the values he holds dear.

As the show progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting projects and heartwarming stories that celebrate the spirit of the American pioneer.