Well before America declared its independence in 1776, a building boom across the colonies meant that architects, carpenters, and artisans needed expertise, materials, and tools. Tools were specific to the role of carpenter, joiner, master, journeyman, apprentice, and the unskilled labor force, which would have included slave labor.
This exhibition represents more than 50 user-made and commercially produced house building tools utilized by 18th century woodworkers. Tools for framing a house, along with those for finishing the interior–floors, doors, cornices, windows, shutters, and chair rails-are represented. British and American wood planes, measuring devices, knives and saws, braces, and other implements are each a piece of art, each used for a specific purpose. We acknowledge the skill and resourcefulness of these craftsmen and their part in building a new nation.
This exhibition has been made possible by the generous loans and contributions of:
Tyler Bennett, Maryland Masterpiece, LLC
Jack Crane
Garret Holden
Ted Ingraham
Paul Koch
Maryland Center for History and Culture
Potomac Antique Tools and Industries Association
John Zerrill, Executive Director, Early American Industries Association
Funding and support were made possible by the:
Hammond-Harwood House Board of Trustees
Hammond-Harwood House Members and Supporters
Hammond-Harwood House Docents and Volunteers
Maryland State Arts Council
Arts Council of Anne Arundel County