My Dad passed away a week ago. I credit him with teaching me about creative work, a bit of woodworking and especially hand tool woodworking. In preparing for his memorial service I came across a few photos that answered some of the mystery for me about this hobby that has become a bit of an infatuation / way of life for me.
The first was photos from a trip to Old Sturbridge Village when I was about 4yrs old.
This is a photo of my older brother on that trip watching a woodworker riving shiggles with a froe. I also see the inactive pit saw in the background. I was probably standing next to my dad, the photographer.
Same visit observing a cooper or chairmaker on the shaving horse.
A few year later there is a photo of me at Ray Perry’s lumber mill in Branchport NY. I notice I am barefoot at an old lumber mill. Clearly Dad (on my left) must have had a lapse of safety precaution that never would have happened if mom were there. … Oh wait… mom is there on my right.
Ray Perry (second from left) owned and operated the mill outside Branchport NY back in the 70’s. I think we were picking up a load of wood to build a dock and were having a little after hours party.
Our old International Harvester pickup in the background ready to be loaded with white oak.
Mid 1970s finds me cutting a fence bard to length with the same Disston crosscut saw that I use in my shop today. My father didn’t own an electric saw, yet we did a significant amount of woodworking..
Here is a boathouse / guest room that my father designed and built. While this was not timber framed with proper joints, it was a good approximation and I am sure it started my appreciation for timber frame designs.
My Dad was a creative spirit and an incredibly hard worker. I miss him, and share time with him spiritually in my shop.
Those are some awesome photos and more awesome memories I am sure. May the God of all comfort soothe you in your time of loss.
Thanks Dan A., I appreciate that.