This wonderful old tobacco smoker was too far gone for a local farmer to hang his tobacco. Not too
far gone to provide wonderful oak boards for new creations though. So how do we get from here. . .
to here or. . .
HERE!
Well, in Western Kentucky we are blessed with these old tobacco barns. Most farmers either have or are switching to the steel structures for fire safety. That leaves many of these beautiful old barns vacant and/or in disrepair.
We thank God that He has blessed us with strapping teenaged boys who can assist their Dad in taking down these structures. Lots of muscle. Lots of sweating. Lots of work. Darrell and I have always thought it important to instill a good work ethic in our children and so hard work is always on the To Do List for all of us.
After the beams and slabs are down they are taken back to the shop in Oak Level, they are cleaned and made ready to put through the planer. Talk about a dirty job! Even with dust collectors, it can get ugly in there.
Darrell usually has a custom order needing to be built and he always has designs swirling around in his head. So the pieces are then cut to length and then the craftmanship begins.
The boys are learning all about building, sanding, finishing, etc. Some days they really enjoy it; Others, not so much. That's when you dig your heels into that work ethic and keep on going, right?
Is it worth all of that work to RECLAIM lumber and turn it into furnishings for homes today?
It is to us. We think it is important. We aren't just passing our values and skills on to the next generation, but passing on beautiful pieces that will last for years and years and years to come.
Blessings To You.