Westfield Washington Historical Society learns tools of the trade from local furnituremaker

From hand planes to winding sticks, the tools of the 19th century woodworker fill the workshop of Westfield furnituremaker Roy Adams.

Last Tuesday evening, Feb. 18, Adams brought out some of his tools for a bit of a show-and-tell for the Westfield Washington Historical Society. Titled “Artisan Geometry: The Tools and Trade of the Pre-Industrial Woodworker,” Adams’ talk centered on how simple geometry and proportions played an integral role in early craftsmanship. He discussed the use of handspans in calculations and the rationale behind the base-12 number system.

Adams brought the job of a woodworker, or joiner, to life by taking those gathered through the design process as if he were a master craftsman in the 1830s who had been called upon by  local residents, the Barkers, to build a useful but aesthetically pleasing piece of furniture.

Adams answers questions after the talk as guests share experiences and memories. (Reporter photo)

The story began next door to the meeting in the Barker Cabin, with Nicholas and Fanny sitting by the fire discussing her need for a cupboard and a work space.

By the end of his one-hour presentation, Adams had demonstrated how a craftsman and his apprentice might have designed and built what is today known as a Hoosier, all with the principals of proportion and geometry … never using a ruler or measuring tape.

“A craftsman’s eye can see down to the thousandth of an inch with years of practice,” Adams said.

Adams demonstrates how to square a board without the use of power tools or measurements. (Reporter photo)

Following the meeting, Adams answered questions. He welcomed anyone interested to take a closer look at the various antique planes, dividers, and sectors and his handmade tools, all items he uses on a regular basis.

In addition to creating custom furniture on commission, Adams founded and runs Chairs of Honor, a nonprofit that honors veterans across the country with handcrafted, heirloom-quality chairs while also preserving their stories of service and sacrifice. Learn more at ChairsOfHonor.com.

The next meeting of the Westfield Washington Historical Society will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 in the Assembly Room at Westfield City Hall, 130 Penn St. “Quakers, the Anti-Slavery Movement, and the Underground Railroad in Hamilton County” will feature Dr. Thomas Hamm, history professor and Quaker scholar in residence at Earlham College in Richmond, Ind.