Smith’s Notes

Last Wednesday saw the Architect’s Assistant, the Structural Engineer and the General Contractor onsite.

The Structural Engineer got to see the foundation, and was more optimistic than expected.

The General Contractor also had pleasant things to say, mainly that we are not in as poor condition as it seems, and that the job is eminently manageable.

Sunday was a wonderful day! I had been contacted by email, a pair of thoroughly delightful gentlemen, brothers, wanted to see the shop they had grown up spending time in. They had vivid memories of watching Mr Wyckoff shoeing horses, and remembered some great details about the place ( the block that the anvil stump was cast into, the apron, and so-on. ).

While we waited for them, a number of others arrived, mostly neighbors. I had expected 2, and had instead the good fortune of about a dozen visitors! It was a delightful visit, though brief. Fortunately, the weather held.

 This past Sunday, I answered the call and ran to the shop to open. Against expectations, we had three visitors, 2 regulars and a new fellow who would like to have some forge time, when we again have a forge.

The shop is unsettling to look at. The rubble, the loose brickwork, and the flood damage are all the more obvious for being exposed, and of course I am so in the habit of looking for it now.

The foreyard is far better looking, as the flooring has been removed and disposed of. We had a very generous helper, who is appreciated.  In two days, 5 pickup loads and 2 trailer loads went out.

The logistics of doing the foreyard demos are evading us. We do have intentions of putting it together, but the sheer mass which would need to be moved, once cold, and only three hours later ( when we are tired ) once again, hot, is an oppressive thought.