News from the Trail
As I write this, Rob is traversing the Smoky Mountains on the Appalachian Trail, heading north to Maine. He is about a month into the adventure and has had some true adventures already! He is loving the trail, the outdoors, and the physical challenge. If you would like to follow him, he has a YouTube channel: Shaker Hikes - YouTube. His videos are short (about 10 mins long), amusing, and showcase some beautiful vistas!
Rob on a chilly morning in the Smoky Mountains
Porter, The Shop Dog
Here's Porter, offering his very best "Say Cheese" smile. All the while wondering why the shop is so quiet and when his next snicky snack is.....
How LeHay’s Shaker Boxes Began
In August of 1993 Rob attended a 2-3 day seminar on Shaker box making at Sabbath Day Lake Shaker village in New Gloucester, Maine. He came home enamored of the process, the resulting product, and the peace that it all brought him when he realized this was what he wanted to do. He still sources his copper tacks from his instructor, John Wilson. These tacks are made on a machine that is over 150 years old! Rob and Mr. Wilson have remained in contact through the years. Mr. Wilson offers classes in various locations around the U.S. and at his Home Shop. There are also great kits available on his website if you want to try making a Shaker box at home. The Home Shop website is wonder, the photos themselves are like cupcakes for your visual sweet tooth! http://www.shakerovalbox.com/
The Beginning! Rob at the Maine Products Trade Show, early 1990's
Shaker Fun Facts
Did you know…. The Shakers were the first Conscientious Objectors in American history? The Shakers didn’t believe it was appropriate to kill or hurt others. Even in time of war. During the Civil War, President Lincoln exempted the Shaker men from military service. Both Union and Confederate soldiers would find their way to Shaker villages where they would be fed and cared for equally.
Source of information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakers#American_Civil_War_period
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Lisa Buick
July 18, 2021
So glad Rob is taking some time for himself. PORTER IS PRECIOUS.