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This photograph depicts Joe Waldroup in his workshop, located in Hayesville, Clay County, North Carolina. Waldroup is seen working on a piece of burl, which is mounted on a lathe. The photograph was taken on November 12, 2016, by the Clay County Documentary Project, as part of the David Smart Collection.
The photograph captures Waldroup engaged in his craft, working on a piece of wood with precision and skill. His focused expression and the various tools and machines around him suggest that woodworking is a serious and intricate process that requires a great deal of expertise.
The piece of burl that Waldroup is working on is likely to be turned into a decorative or functional item, such as a bowl, a vase, or a piece of furniture. The unique patterns and textures of burl create a highly sought-after material for woodworking, and many craftsmen specialize in working with this type of wood.
Hayesville, Clay County, North Carolina, is located in the Appalachian Mountains, and the area has a rich history of woodworking and craftsmanship. Traditionally, woodworking was an important source of livelihood for the local population, with many families passing down the craft from generation to generation.
In recent years, traditional woodworking has faced many challenges, including the rise of industrial mass production and the decline of the furniture industry. However, there is still a strong community of craftsmen in the area who continue to create unique and high-quality pieces using traditional methods.
The Clay County Documentary Project was established in 2015 to capture the stories and history of the county and its people. The David Smart Collection, of which this photograph is a part, focuses on the people of Clay County and their livelihoods. Through photographs and other archival materials, the collection documents the changing economic and social landscape of the area over time.
Overall, this photograph provides a glimpse into the world of traditional woodworking and the skill and dedication required to create beautiful and functional objects from natural materials. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the history and traditions of local communities, such as those found in Hayesville and Clay County, North Carolina.
Posted by R. David Smart on 2019-03-10 16:54:13