Setting up the Window for the Wood on Glass Exhibit & Talk
Being in my father's workshop has always been a joyful experience for me. The sights, sounds, and smells of wood shavings, sawdust, and freshly cut lumber transport me to a place of peace and contentment. Listening to him talk about the history of each tool, their origins, and how they've been used throughout the generations, is like hearing a captivating story unfold. I've learned so much from him about woodworking techniques, joinery, and the characteristics of different types of wood.
Watching him work is mesmerizing. The way he skillfully wields each tool, whether it's a hand plane, a chisel, or a saw, is a testament to his years of experience and dedication to his craft. His hands move with precision and purpose, shaping raw wood into beautiful and functional pieces. I'm always amazed by how he can transform rough lumber into finely crafted furniture, intricate cabinets, delicately turned bowls, and even simple wooden spoons. Each piece he creates is a testament to his skill, patience, and artistic vision.
display for the upcoming exhibit and talk at the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center
But it's not just about the woodworking itself. It's about the time spent with my father, the shared passion for creating something with our hands, and the lessons I've learned along the way. He's taught me the value of hard work, the importance of attention to detail, and the satisfaction of creating something that will last for generations.
Being in his workshop has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of woodworking and a love for working with my hands. It's a place where creativity flourishes, skills are honed, and memories are made. And for that, I will always be grateful.
the other part of the front window display
Reaching out to him with a request for hand tools from the late 19th century, the kind that would likely have been found at a lumber camp, was an obvious and easy decision. The aim was to enhance the exhibit with tangible artifacts that visitors could interact with, providing a deeper understanding of the historical context. He was enthusiastic about supporting the project and readily agreed to lend the tools, recognizing the value they would add to the display.
loading up our car with a disassembled shaving horse and other tools that perhaps would have been at a lumber camp in the late 1800s.
I have gone through the tools labeling each one to identify them for the visitors during Saturday's Wood on Glass: A Glimpse Into Our Lumbering Past exhibit & talk, from 3-6 at the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center.
Step back in time at the Johnsonburg Community Trust’s Heritage-Education & Welcome Center! We're showcasing "Wood on Glass," a remarkable collection of photographs offering a rare glimpse into the region's rich lumbering heritage through the lens of William T. Clarke. Discover the fascinating stories behind these images and how they were brought to light, revealing the ingenuity and resilience of those who shaped Pennsylvania's forests and rural communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped our landscapes, industries, and communities. "Wood on Glass" truly captures the essence of a bygone era – showcasing the tools, techniques, and the individuals who built a legacy in our forests.
Join us for a captivating presentation that delves into the significance of these images, their historical context, and their enduring power to inspire education and cultural appreciation. Following the talk, you can explore the collection up close and engage with LHR Educator Rowan Crisp who will be on hand to answer questions and share the captivating stories woven within these extraordinary images.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the past, present, and future of the Lumber Heritage Region!
Read more about the Photographic Legacy of William T. Clarke in Wood Hicks & Bark Peelers by Ronald F. Ostman & Harry Littell.
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