The
Northumberland Dry Stone
Wall Festival was
held at Garden Hill Acres October 6 - 8,
2007
A group of eighteen students, led by Master Waller Jo Hodgson, began
their task of building a 50 foot straight wall.
They learned techniques of batter, hearting, through stones and
proper placement -- techniques that make the difference between a wall
that will last 100 years and one that will fall down over the winter!
The weather threw a unexpected curveball: three separate lightning
and thunder storms on Saturday forced a few breaks but the almost
constant rain was no match for this crew -- nothing could stop their
progress and several eagerly returned the following two days to continue
the work.
The wall is unfinished
but we are excited to be able to entertain the next group of students in
the Spring of 2008.
Click on any image for full
size:
Day 1 - Saturday
Thunder, lightning and much rain failed to dampen any spirits!
The students listen intently as Jo Hodgson begins
Lesson 1
Jo explains how to get started
The angle of the supports for the string lines
ensure the correct "batter"...
Laying the stones out in various categories
simplifies future selection
Day 2 - Sunday
Many students returned the following
day to eagerly continue the work
Day 3 - Monday
We are very impressed with the quality
work in this Student Wall. These folks are ready to do
some Serious Walling!
Unexpectedly severe
weather slowed progress and the wall is unfinished but we are excited to
be able to entertain the next group of students in the Spring of 2008.
Even though the festival is now over, you are invited to
come and view the structures. Please Email
us if you wish to visit.
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