Antique Methods of Woodworking

Every day as you travel around Washington County you see evidence of exceptional pioneer craftsmanship. The homes and buildings that were first built when the settlers came to this area and are standing today show what skill they had in building structures to last a long time. The Temple and Tabernacle are also excellent examples of the craftsmanship of those early pioneers. These structures plus furniture and other items they made for their homes and businesses were made with tools and equipment that were common and everyday items for the pioneers but what about today?

The tools and equipment used in today’s home building and furniture making are quite different. New technology has changed many things about the process of creating beautiful furniture, so it is fun to think back to how they did that when they had so very few things that they were able to bring here.

Colin Smith, a master woodworker, is going to show us how they used everyday hand tools to make some outstanding things. The tools he uses are what they used in the 1800’s and he will highlight some of the items we have at the Pioneer Museum.

Born in London, Colin, apprenticed as a Coach Builder for the British Railways from 1983-1987 and worked as a cabinet maker at Gulfstream Aerospace from 1997 to 2017. He is self-taught in fine woodworking, and he specializes in the use of hand tools. His love of the craft shows in the projects that he has done which involves inlays of various materials. He has even made custom Acoustic guitars and period furniture.

Colin Smith will be making his presentation and showing some of his wonderful pieces at the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum for the 3rd Weekend Event on, Saturday, October 16, at 10 AM. The Museum is located at 145 North 100 East, St. George. The public is invited, and admission is free. There is handicap access. Call 435-628-7274 if you have questions. Current COVID protocols are being followed. Masks are not required but encouraged.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!