U.S. Design History Query  

First, let me say how much I've appreciated the chance to listen in on the past year's thoughtful and thought-provoking DesignAddict discussions. Now a plea: Looking at a narrow slice of U.S. design history -- the use of hardwoods in furniture, architecture, or interiors --
1. are we approaching any significant anniversaries in 2006-2007? I'm looking for people or events or concepts with lasting impact, dating from 50 or 100 or some even-numbered point in time, involving the use of hardwoods. (The recent Danish-Modern-in-the U.S. discussion is interesting, for instance.)
2. can anyone suggest an unsung U.S. design hero or heroine who's overdue for recognition? A hardwood-oriented artist or innovator, like a Gustav Stickley or a George Nakashima, who's somehow fallen through the cracks?

Thanks for any ideas or pointers.