Starting with a $20 truckload of used lumber at an Interstate 8 construction site, Charley Jennings began the legacy of J&W Lumber in 1957. From those modest beginning, Charley Jennings built a legend in the deck, fence and patio cover industry, with 6 retail yards and a wholesale operation.

From that first truckload of used lumber, he was able to lease some land on Twain Street where he opened the first J&W Lumber, which later became J&W Redwood Lumber Company, Inc.

In 1976 the Simonson Lumber Company of Smith River California sold the Jennings Family their wholesale distribution yard and re-manufacturing facility in El Cajon, and that became CJ Redwood, the wholesale operation.

J&W has always been on the cutting edge, whether it was in the mid 1960's when Charley introduced sapwood lumber, a cheaper alternative to the traditional heartwood for fencing, decks and patio covers, or the wide selection of composite materials that J&W features today.

J&W Lumber today is still a family run business with Charley's son Clyde as President, daughter Charmaine V.P.   The company continues to operate with the same philosophy that helped them grow through the decades.

Charley loved the redwood industry. His theory was that you had about 100 years or so on this earth and you better find something that makes you totally happy. He found his niche in redwood, and he loved it. He also used to say "never try to beat another man at his own game - Stick with what you know" .

We hope you'll come to appreciate the legend that still is… J&W Lumber!