Raised in Vicksburg, Tom has long been rooted in community service. His work reflects a deep commitment to the place where he grew up—an opportunity to give back to his hometown in a meaningful and lasting way. He leads the antique stove restoration efforts at The Plated Nickel, overseeing each stage of the process with a blend of technical skill and respect for craftsmanship.
His work brings together precision and creativity, restoring pieces that once played a central role in everyday life. The Plated Nickel preserves an important chapter of Michigan’s industrial heritage, breathing new life into artifacts that once warmed homes and shaped communities. Tom restores a range of historic wood-burning stoves, including many originally manufactured in Michigan—each one reflecting the region’s long tradition of craftsmanship and innovation.
Once restored, these stoves will be displayed throughout downtown Vicksburg’s revitalized historic buildings and in a dedicated museum celebrating the legacy of the stove-making industry. Select pieces will also be available for purchase, offering the chance for the public to bring a functional piece of local history into their homes.