I was asked in 2015 to bring some old tools in for a presentation as part of our local library centennial celebration.  While not an expert, I am somewhat versed in the subject as a hobby and so I presented for about 15 minutes that night about tools at the turn of the century.  Fast forward 4 years and  I was asked to return.  I talked for 90 minutes on basic hand tool design and use, makers marks, electrolysis rust removal, refinishing and whatever else came out in questions.  My 11 y.o. Daughter helped me at the first showing and spent 10 minutes talking with the crowd about her planes and 4H woodworking projects this time.  Crowds aren’t really large at our little small town library but those in attendance seemed interested in my slightly “different” subject matter and conversation was good!  All in all, a great night!  This is us in 2019 (top photo) and our first attempt in 2015 in the lower photo.  Notice that 220 Stanley in purple and yellow!  “Black is too boring when you are nine!” was her quote when we painted it and when she showed it the other evening!  

Edited October 22, 20196 yr by Bundoman

Nice family and great story.

Herb

Just now, Dadio said:

Nice family and great story.

Herb

Thank you so much!  I have 4 kids but only 2 that are interested in the old stuff.  The 16 y.o. was school busy and was disappointed that she was unable to attend either of these nights.

Good to see people were interested.  These days if it isn't instant XYZ they lose interest in 2 minutes.

 

 

You done good 

1 minute ago, Woodbutcherbynight said:

Good to see people were interested.  These days if it isn't instant XYZ they lose interest in 2 minutes.

 

 

This is true so often!  I originally was supposed to talk for up to an hour.  The group asked me to continue for awhile longer.  It was enjoyable!

6 minutes ago, Bundoman said:

I originally was supposed to talk for up to an hour.

Kudos to you for doing this.  I cannot stand public speaking.  In Iraq I would get a commendation and have my friend go to the ceremony and act like he was me.  Accept it, give a short speech and everybody was happy.  He looked heroic, big guy, gave good speeches loved to do it.    

1 minute ago, Woodbutcherbynight said:

Kudos to you for doing this.  I cannot stand public speaking.  In Iraq I would get a commendation and have my friend go to the ceremony and act like he was me.  Accept it, give a short speech and everybody was happy.  He looked heroic, big guy, gave good speeches loved to do it.    

Thank you!  It’s not for everybody to be sure and it took time before I became comfortable. I used to be so timid!  A couple college presentations helped!   I agreed to do this one without even asking about time or topic!  My wife asked if I am crazy or stupid brave!  She finished by saying there would be no way she would attempt this.  My daughter, on the other hand, begged to get up there!  Different strokes!  

Good on ya. No telling how many you inspired to put down their phones and pick up a tool. Kids and adults alike. 

What a great way to spend an evening with your daughter.  Simply super

Great story.  Kudos to you for taking the time to do it.  When I sit back and think about it most or all the people there were given information they would never have gotten otherwise.  Might have sparked some interest in a couple too.

2 hours ago, Cal said:

What a great way to spend an evening with your daughter.  Simply super

Thank you!  She seemed to enjoy the attention and did a nice job.  She has been to the Illinois State Fair twice now with Woodworking and talked about her projects a bit.

1 hour ago, HandyDan said:

Great story.  Kudos to you for taking the time to do it.  When I sit back and think about it most or all the people there were given information they would never have gotten otherwise.  Might have sparked some interest in a couple too.

Appreciate it...there was interest in the rust removal process for sure because it can apply to so many different items.  The old tool are lost to so many also.  Hoping they ask me to return.  It is enjoyable to share.

Like Gene, there is no telling how many folks you inspired to actually build something with their minds and hands.  We used to be a productive society.  Thank you for doing this community service.