Scott (and co.), I have never commented about one of your videos, but I am compelled to relate, after watching this, your most recent and simply moving addition, how much I treasure your presence in this world. I first watched your content (what a word that is) for the construction knowledge. Very quickly I realized that you provide so much more and so much that we, as a people, need to know, remember, and treasure. Now I am quite sure I would watch a video of you tying your shoes or eating a bowl of cereal because I know I would get something out of it. So, for the story you shared here, and all your other tidbits big and small, thank you… and keep up the good work!
First video ever stumbled across how to sharpen knives an axes. And as I sit there and listen to speak and teach I was profoundly struck with deep admiration and I instantly knew that whatever words this gentle old man spoke we're filled with knowledge expertise from hands-on experience of trial-and-error well beyond the wisdom in which he spoke resided kindness and a love not only for the art of The Craft but a compelling deep importance for Humanity to obtain a chance to grasp Priceless knowledge which took a man a lifetime to possess freely given for the benefit of all in which to choose to acknowledge it's true importance. Soon after that video I realized this wasn't some bored retiree. But a amazingly skilled still hardworking awesome essential Craftsman and a wonderful human being. I value everything that he has been so gracious to give us all. He is a Truly impeccable and stellar human being. Who I admire and look forward to continuing to see an learn from for many more years to come. (~);} NFA
I’m only 25, but I feel much older than peers when I read the outstanding comments around me and realize that I am in much wiser company. I only began woodworking as a hobby three years ago, but my fascination for the quality of older tools, and the quality skill demanded by them makes me wish that I had a family member who could teach me. Instead, I’ve got UA-cam and Scott!
What a great story, thank you for sharing it. I remember my first pocket knife, my grandfather gave it to me when I was seven years old, and yes, I do still feel the anguish of losing it 55 years later.
Henry Ford was a great man, he published a newspaper at his own expense and distributed it freely because of the message that he perceived as vitally important for the American people to understand, the paper was called The Dearborn Independent.
My grandfather gave me his Zippo lighter with the armoury emblem on it from his time as a lieutenant colonel in world war two... I lost it,, playing air soft with my son out in a field...never found it again and it still breaks my heart. So my son when he and his gal went to Ireland he brought me back a cool one from there and gave me it to try and make me feel a little better about it. I am blessed.
When I was 15 or so, I once told my friend, who did not know, that the greatest word in a great sacred book was the first word, of the first verse, in the first chapter.....it was the word "I" as in, me, myself, my story in my own words., "I make it with mine own hand". what would we have if that great man did NOT leave us his story? we all have them, we all need to preserve them for those who follow us. it's the good work we need to keep up. thankyou Scott. well done. Darrell
I got married in 1987, at Henry's Chapel he had built, 'Martha Mary Chapel'. After leaving the Chapel, we had some incredible pictures taken across the way at the Grist Mill. Such a beautiful place I will never forget. We live in NH, but I still drive by often. Unlike many other places of my past, this has not changed. In one of many Periscope Films videos, I saw 'The Grist Mill' in an episode of 'Industry On Parade' from back late 40's - early 50's, showing a lady who was bringing in her grain to be ground into flour there for her new bread baking business . . . . . the business was named 'Pepperidge Farms'. I was so surprised, having bread in my pantry at that very moment with that same name on it's label.
By just a few simple words, you convey a story that has such deep meaning. Your story about the knife had tears running down my face by the end. The simplicity and honesty of your life, your lessons to pretty much everyone that chooses to listen, your friends, your family, and your demeanor truly have influenced and set an example for many people, including myself. Your videos are by far the best, most educational and most interesting (especially for laypeople such as myself). Thanks for sharing, Scott, you've helped this 62 year old make it through another day.
What a FANTASTIC story for you to pass on to all of us. I will remember it for a long time. My wife doesn't want to hear my stories anymore, so my son is stuck with hearing them. Can still pass on some building knowledge to him, like when we remodeled his bathroom in his condo. Now my son can plumb PVC pipe, solder copper pipe, hang and finish drywall. Also cut and install wood trim, and paint it all. I was so proud of him the way he learned it all from me.
Great Story. I put a link to this in a place where I can find it again. And share it with others. I am old enough that I have valued special stories for decades. Thank you.
its amazing to see history like that is still around. 10 years ago a cousin of mine was telling me how he lost a knife out in the fields of Utah on a family trip a year prior. i went on the next family trip and we my cousin and i was walking through that same field and i couldn't believe it but i actually found the knife still in the case in really good condition.
Scott and the Wadsworth clan give me great satisfaction in knowing that there are still many worthwhile decent and kind people on this Earth. All one ever hears about of late are the mentally misled and those devoid of any semblance of good character. The UA-cam contributions of good Mr. Wadsworth are often the only light at the end of a dark day for me.
What a GREAT story!! I haven't been there in over 40 years! My mom, dad, & maternal grandmother and grandfather used to go there every weekend for years and years. As a young child I so desperately wanted to see that thing working! Only one time do I recall it being open to see all the gears close up. Loved that stuff then as much as now! So happy to see it actually working! I had no idea that either Ford, nor Edison were involved in that! I knew nothing of the electrical components installed by Edison himself! WOW that is amazing! The pocket knife story just put this one over the top! Thanks for sharing - made my night!!
You Sir, are a Master Storyteller, and I truly enjoy your wisdom. "As Father's, by the way, we have a duty to give our son's our approval". Truer words were never spoken and I try to comply - as I know how much I cherished my Father's approval.
BTW - I lost my first knife, a Victorinox Swiss Army, up the dirt road from our house when they were building a pond. I think about it whenever I pass by the pond knowing it is still there...50+ years later.
Outstanding story Scott! I love it when an event comes full circle. In this case 80+ years later. Maybe I am becoming too sentimental, because it brought tears to my eyes. 🙂
I proposed to my wife in front of that gristmill, right in front of the water wheel. Its a very special place for me and my own. Great to have you in the northeast, especially central mass. I feel its past can sometimes be forgotten with the suburbs growing; however, it has an extremely rich history.
My Pocket knife is in Lake Metacomet, Belchertown Massachusets about 50 miles West of this mill. It fell from my pocket while fishing from a row boat in the early 1950's. Thanks to you for this grist story for bring me back in time about 70 years. Al Norm Jan. 31, 2023
You my friend, should go on the circuit as a motivational speaker. Not to sell any commercial product or tool, but to remind all of us collectively and individually of how each of us should comport our lives, treat one another and cherish the history of the county and our forefathers. Great video!!
I moved from New England (upstate NY, CT, and Maine) to Florida at the end of 2019 …in short, because my father needed me… I miss those places of stone and wood and water. Places with deep history and character. You have spoken to my heart (and soul) on several occasions over the years and you have done so again today. I’m sure my 6 month old grandson will appreciate you someday for inspiring me to write down some stories now. Thank you… for altering my life’s course… just a little… again
LOVED the pocketknife story. How fantasic that it was returned following the old man's passing. Bless my father, who passed when I was in high school. He was so patient with me, who as a young boy, borrowed dad's tools as I was doing stuff around the yard, and often left them right where I completed whatever task I was working on. Today, some 50 years later, I often dig up or see an old tool, exposed by erosion, that I had borrowed and left out and about, and I am reminded, fondly, of my precious father.
My father used to build the mechanism of the flour mill just before the second World in rural Greece. Those flour mills were jet mills that never one the states. I used to bring my father's lunch and I was mesmerized by the turning of the top stone wheel when a knife I was holding fell in and the mill stopped. My father having his lunch in the next and not noticed but I got so scared that ran to village and hid until next day. Of course my father did not reprimanded me. He restarted it and there were no damage. This mill was blown up as many in the area by the retreating Germans in 1944. Afterward my father rebuilt the building and mechanism with help of ten Italian POWS. Beautiful memories!
Fantastic! Second only to “Heal and Toe”. How you manage to keep from becoming very emotional during these sermons is beyond me. I’ve written several things that I can not offer as a speech due to the emotions they evoke. Your ability, Sir, is beyond my understanding. Pray maintain speed and course.
Wow--that is a good story. The Ford and Edison involvement with that mill was enough...but the young boy/old man pocket knife put the story into orbit!!!
A great story, well told. Thank you. It brought back fond memories of 60-plus year younger me listening to an elderly miller explain his family's 1825 mill workings. He had grown up working there, as had his father and grandfather His love for that place was as strong as the one you saw. He kept it working until his death. Thank you
Scott, what I love about this is its confirmation of the evolution that we experience today based upon the ideas and the work that was done by the generations before us that are the forgotten and unseen foundation of our work and processes today. And old tools, mechanisms, buildings, etc., have a place in my heart because they are milestones and remembrances of this evolution.
What a wonderful story. It evokes memories of my young days when I would labour with my father and other neighbours fully believing I was working as an equal even though I was only 10 years old. The internal pride I felt working with men I looked up to together with their patience and unspoken love I will never forget. I try so hard to be that man to my kids.
Great, great story. As if the old man's life had come full circle; as if a seed planted 80+ years before, sprouted, into a legacy, or tree of remembrance. Not sure what I'm trying to say, but thank you. Thanks, Scott, great story! Steve H.
Wow. Someone else who gets it. I just spent several days making a pair of legs for an old saddler's horse. I tried very hard to make a sympathetic repair. I want to keep it in service, and the old legs had just given out, but I replaced only what I had to replace, and those parts I tried to make true to the original, because I value the men who used it before me, and I want it to be useable for generations to come. Junk ends up out in the barn. Well cared for tools that are still useful retain a place of honor and are cared for. I'm planning on writing out what I did on a 3x5 card and tacking it to the underside, so there is some record of its past. It came to me with nothing, but I'll try to preserve what I did, anyway.
Scott, Thanks for this video. First, I am in the process of writing down things from my life that I remember so that my children & grandchildren will have an idea of what happened to me during my life. Recently I was relating something at a holiday dinner and my middle daughter says "Why haven't we heard this before?". Hopefully, someday they will get to read what I have written. Second, several years ago after my father passed @ 97 years old, we were cleaning out his workshop. There in the back of a drawer were a stack of old wooden planes that had been my Great Grandfathers (he was a cabinet maker) and an old carpenters mortice gauge marking tool. It waa so worn that he had put in new nails as a marker and the brass that rides along the edge was worn so thin that you could hardly see it. I cherish those tools.
I need to so the same, I have tools that I inherited from my grandfather, my father and a great uncle. I plan on taking photos of them and writing a brief description and provinonce of each.
I've watched nearly every video that you have produced, and I have to say without hesitation, this was my favorite one. The history, the way you describe in detail the story, the gestures and facial expressions, it is unparalleled. I could, as they say, listen to you read the dictionary or the phone book (do they still exist?) Have you ever considered as a part time future endeavor, reading for audio books? You should have your own tv show, it could be a mix of construction, blacksmithing, general family values and passing along that oh so important knowledge to the next generation. In 1985 I lost my step dad to cancer, I was 20 he was 46. I remember thinking when I turned 46 just how young that was and that I wished and still wish to this day that I would have really listened to what he had to teach me even more. I learned the electrical trade from him, but there was so much more that he was teaching me and I didn't even realize it until years later and even up to today. You have such a way about you. I hope and I'm sure this is the case, that your family cherishes you not just for what you know, but what you share with them. Thanks for listening, and ...."Keep up the good work"
My first knife, a Christmas gift, was lost within hours. I was so proud to be helping my dad feed hay off the truck and cutting twine with my own knife... and at some point it went out with a toss of a flake of hay. An exhaustive search would not convince the cows to give it back. It was a hard lesson about caring for my tools.
Thats the third time one of your wonderful stories had made my eyes leak just a little, my grandfather was a master monumental mason in Surrey England, I still use many of his tools in my little hobby workshop, and these real life stories make me think of him and my father, both now gone, but never forgotten, please please keep up the good work.
Agreed. These types of experiences are some of my peak moments in existence, second only to watching my children be born and grow up. I bought a farm last year, which I am cleaning up from a sorry state of neglect. The greatest treasure I have found there is my new neighbour, who grew up in the old farm house. He showed me where, in 1918, his grandparents carved their names into the fieldstone foundation of the new barn they built. So many stories beyond that, with many more to tell. I hope I can hear them all. Keep telling these stories!
What a story and you are an inspiration. My husband has a few stories that over the years I've tried to encourage him to write down and share with others. You've inspired me to help him by making it easy. I'm off to find a dictation app so all he has to do is tell his stories to me again while it listens and writes it down for him.
Great story! Where I grew up (in the 1960's), in the village Macon Michigan, where I played around Henry Ford's Mill and the creek, and where I worked for old Mr. Hall, who worked for Henry Ford when he was young, explains why your story really resonates with me.
That is such a great story!!!! Imagine if they planted some decent old school style pocket knives in there and for any kids old enough who pays attention gets themselves a pocket knife they will never forget
A great story told here by Scott... a great story teller.. Essential Craftsman is just as much about the quality of the craft as it is the historical relevance of old tools and the place those tools hold in the heirlooms and engineering marvels that they help create.
Thank you! This story touched my heart in a few ways, most importantly, the duty we have to our children. My grandfather was a pattern maker here in Springfield VT. Although he gave most of his tools away to another younger pattern maker, I still have a few. A quiet humble man that had great gift of encouragement to others. Seeing the best in people and their skills and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. A remarkable man at only 5'4".
Great story Scott. I've inherited some great hand tools from my dad when he died and I was just a 13 yr old. Now I have a professional shop where I keep some on the walls, and some in the tool drawers. They get used everyday. All made in America. Thanks for the post, from Montana.
I’ve peered through those windows dozens of times. Taken family pictures there and heard some of the history but had never had the opportunity to go inside and explore the way you have. Thank you for sharing your experience so that mine can be enhanced the next time I visit The Grist Mill.
Thank you for 10 minutes of your wisened view of life's mysteries so many of which are often overlooked. Very touching, honest and real in what's become a plastic isolated world.
Great story! I love that pieces of our past and history are being preserved. There is so much we can learn from reflecting on how people used to live and why they did things.
I was taught very young that old timers, Like my grandpa's coveted not many things other than there pocket knives. I still have my grandfather's nife. It reminds me i come from a lineage of old world craftsman. Who,s riches are not money. They are wisdom, compassion & patience they shared with me.
Greetings from Australia. My first pocket knife was not fancy, A friend gave it to me , it was made from pressed metal with pressed metal sides that soon fell off. Then the pins that held it together gave way. I can't remember exactly how but I know I repaired them. I kept that old knife on me for a couple of years. I used it all the time for the myriad of things that a pocket knife does well. A prized position for a 11 year old. I know the age because I know where I was living at the time. That was over 60 years ago. Sadly i dropped it on a long pier over the sea and it fell through the cracks in the boards and was lost. The water was deep. Watching your video account of the grist mill made me think back to using that knife. It is surprising how clearly events like this are retained in the mind. You are right about old tools too. I particularly like the second hand tools I have accumulated that have names on them, sometimes more than one name. These human connections make a tool special. Spirits from the past that live on.
Thank you for sharing this. My great grandfather was the last in a line of millers. He and his family built mills around east central Alabama for many decades. This reminds me of him.
What a touching story. My first pocket knife was a Boy Scout knife that I received when I started in Cub Scouts. It slipped from my hand and fell into a campfire. By the time I was able to fish it out, the plastic side had melted. 70 years later I still have that knife and remember that camping trip as though it were yesterday..............Thank you Scott
I still have and use some of my Dads old tools. They always bring back very clear happy memories. Ok as well as some of the times we fell out. When we used them together years ago.
Great, moving story. Ranks up there with the blacksmiths grave marker. I am sure there are others and we are indeed fortunate to be able to share them.
Awesome story! I love to use tools from those much older than me, and I’m 66 already. To image that person that once held that tool and to give it life once more. Causes me to work a little slower, to take more care in what I do, to reflect on days gone by that were much simpler. That’s why I love old tools-time travel at its best!❤️
Thanks for sharing this beautiful Mill video and the stories! Every mill has a interesting stories and history you can almost smel and hear walking around the mill itself.
Scott (and co.), I have never commented about one of your videos, but I am compelled to relate, after watching this, your most recent and simply moving addition, how much I treasure your presence in this world. I first watched your content (what a word that is) for the construction knowledge. Very quickly I realized that you provide so much more and so much that we, as a people, need to know, remember, and treasure. Now I am quite sure I would watch a video of you tying your shoes or eating a bowl of cereal because I know I would get something out of it. So, for the story you shared here, and all your other tidbits big and small, thank you… and keep up the good work!
He has a wonderful way to tell this beautiful story.
It’s just a word..
First video ever stumbled across how to sharpen knives an axes. And as I sit there and listen to speak and teach I was profoundly struck with deep admiration and I instantly knew that whatever words this gentle old man spoke we're filled with knowledge expertise from hands-on experience of trial-and-error well beyond the wisdom in which he spoke resided kindness and a love not only for the art of The Craft but a compelling deep importance for Humanity to obtain a chance to grasp Priceless knowledge which took a man a lifetime to possess freely given for the benefit of all in which to choose to acknowledge it's true importance. Soon after that video I realized this wasn't some bored retiree. But a amazingly skilled still hardworking awesome essential Craftsman and a wonderful human being. I value everything that he has been so gracious to give us all. He is a Truly impeccable and stellar human being. Who I admire and look forward to continuing to see an learn from for many more years to come. (~);} NFA
I’m only 25, but I feel much older than peers when I read the outstanding comments around me and realize that I am in much wiser company. I only began woodworking as a hobby three years ago, but my fascination for the quality of older tools, and the quality skill demanded by them makes me wish that I had a family member who could teach me. Instead, I’ve got UA-cam and Scott!
What a great story, thank you for sharing it. I remember my first pocket knife, my grandfather gave it to me when I was seven years old, and yes, I do still feel the anguish of losing it 55 years later.
The Randall knife
Henry Ford was a great man, he published a newspaper at his own expense and distributed it freely because of the message that he perceived as vitally important for the American people to understand, the paper was called The Dearborn Independent.
@@shinnick22 Lost mine in Panama in 77
My grandfather gave me his Zippo lighter with the armoury emblem on it from his time as a lieutenant colonel in world war two...
I lost it,, playing air soft with my son out in a field...never found it again and it still breaks my heart.
So my son when he and his gal went to Ireland he brought me back a cool one from there and gave me it to try and make me feel a little better about it.
I am blessed.
When I was 15 or so, I once told my friend, who did not know, that the greatest word in a great sacred book was the first word, of the first verse, in the first chapter.....it was the word "I" as in, me, myself, my story in my own words., "I make it with mine own hand". what would we have if that great man did NOT leave us his story? we all have them, we all need to preserve them for those who follow us. it's the good work we need to keep up. thankyou Scott. well done. Darrell
This story Scott brought tears to my eyes from the start and couldn't believe the end.
I got married in 1987, at Henry's Chapel he had built, 'Martha Mary Chapel'.
After leaving the Chapel, we had some incredible pictures taken across the
way at the Grist Mill. Such a beautiful place I will never forget. We live in NH,
but I still drive by often. Unlike many other places of my past, this has not
changed. In one of many Periscope Films videos, I saw 'The Grist Mill' in an
episode of 'Industry On Parade' from back late 40's - early 50's, showing a
lady who was bringing in her grain to be ground into flour there for her new
bread baking business . . . . . the business was named 'Pepperidge Farms'.
I was so surprised, having bread in my pantry at that very moment with
that same name on it's label.
The old man's story is so powerful. Thank you Sir and stay well.
By just a few simple words, you convey a story that has such deep meaning. Your story about the knife had tears running down my face by the end. The simplicity and honesty of your life, your lessons to pretty much everyone that chooses to listen, your friends, your family, and your demeanor truly have influenced and set an example for many people, including myself. Your videos are by far the best, most educational and most interesting (especially for laypeople such as myself). Thanks for sharing, Scott, you've helped this 62 year old make it through another day.
What a FANTASTIC story for you to pass on to all of us. I will remember it for a long time. My wife doesn't want to hear my stories anymore, so my son is stuck with hearing them. Can still pass on some building knowledge to him, like when we remodeled his bathroom in his condo. Now my son can plumb PVC pipe, solder copper pipe, hang and finish drywall. Also cut and install wood trim, and paint it all. I was so proud of him the way he learned it all from me.
Great Story. I put a link to this in a place where I can find it again. And share it with others.
I am old enough that I have valued special stories for decades.
Thank you.
its amazing to see history like that is still around. 10 years ago a cousin of mine was telling me how he lost a knife out in the fields of Utah on a family trip a year prior. i went on the next family trip and we my cousin and i was walking through that same field and i couldn't believe it but i actually found the knife still in the case in really good condition.
Scott and the Wadsworth clan give me great satisfaction in knowing that there are still many worthwhile decent and kind people on this Earth. All one ever hears about of late are the mentally misled and those devoid of any semblance of good character. The UA-cam contributions of good Mr. Wadsworth are often the only light at the end of a dark day for me.
What a GREAT story!! I haven't been there in over 40 years! My mom, dad, & maternal grandmother and grandfather used to go there every weekend for years and years. As a young child I so desperately wanted to see that thing working! Only one time do I recall it being open to see all the gears close up. Loved that stuff then as much as now! So happy to see it actually working! I had no idea that either Ford, nor Edison were involved in that! I knew nothing of the electrical components installed by Edison himself! WOW that is amazing! The pocket knife story just put this one over the top! Thanks for sharing - made my night!!
You Sir, are a Master Storyteller, and I truly enjoy your wisdom.
"As Father's, by the way, we have a duty to give our son's our approval".
Truer words were never spoken and I try to comply - as I know how much I cherished my Father's approval.
BTW - I lost my first knife, a Victorinox Swiss Army, up the dirt road from our house when they were building a pond. I think about it whenever I pass by the pond knowing it is still there...50+ years later.
Scott, you are at the top of my list of most admired men on this planet. Much obliged for all of your shared stories.
Henry Ford should be on the top of all American men’s list.
You took the words right out of my mouth.
Maybe the most touching EC episode to date.
A diamond in the rough - that’s what this story is. Thank you for telling it!
Outstanding story Scott! I love it when an event comes full circle. In this case 80+ years later. Maybe I am becoming too sentimental, because it brought tears to my eyes. 🙂
I proposed to my wife in front of that gristmill, right in front of the water wheel. Its a very special place for me and my own.
Great to have you in the northeast, especially central mass. I feel its past can sometimes be forgotten with the suburbs growing; however, it has an extremely rich history.
Wow, Sean! That's great! Moistened these dry old eyes.
Thanks, Sean.
How long have you been together? :)
❤ I love every word in this story and what it means. Thank you for sharing this.
My Pocket knife is in Lake Metacomet, Belchertown Massachusets about 50 miles West of this mill. It fell from my pocket while fishing from a row boat in the early 1950's. Thanks to you for this grist story for bring me back in time about 70 years. Al Norm
Jan. 31, 2023
You my friend, should go on the circuit as a motivational speaker. Not to sell any commercial product or tool, but to remind all of us collectively and individually of how each of us should comport our lives, treat one another and cherish the history of the county and our forefathers. Great video!!
What wisdom you have in "we have a duty to give our sons our approval", I don't recall my dad ever doing that, though he may have once or twice.
I moved from New England (upstate NY, CT, and Maine) to Florida at the end of 2019 …in short, because my father needed me… I miss those places of stone and wood and water. Places with deep history and character.
You have spoken to my heart (and soul) on several occasions over the years and you have done so again today.
I’m sure my 6 month old grandson will appreciate you someday for inspiring me to write down some stories now. Thank you…
for altering my life’s course…
just a little…
again
Just wondering how you got a picture of my cat for your profile pic.
LOVED the pocketknife story. How fantasic that it was returned following the old man's passing.
Bless my father, who passed when I was in high school. He was so patient with me, who as a young boy, borrowed dad's tools as I was doing stuff around the yard, and often left them right where I completed whatever task I was working on. Today, some 50 years later, I often dig up or see an old tool, exposed by erosion, that I had borrowed and left out and about, and I am reminded, fondly, of my precious father.
Wow! We live no more than 25 min from the Wayside Inn. What a beautiful story. Thanks for sharing it!!!
My father used to build the mechanism of the flour mill just before the second World in rural Greece. Those flour mills were jet mills that never one the states. I used to bring my father's lunch and I was mesmerized by the turning of the top stone wheel when a knife I was holding fell in and the mill stopped. My father having his lunch in the next and not noticed but I got so scared that ran to village and hid until next day. Of course my father did not reprimanded me. He restarted it and there were no damage. This mill was blown up as many in the area by the retreating Germans in 1944. Afterward my father rebuilt the building and mechanism with help of ten Italian POWS. Beautiful memories!
Now they take these amazing treasures and use them as decorating projects. Thank you for reminding us of the greatness before greed took over. ❤
That's such an amazing story, and you have a gift for telling it too, Scott! Thanks!
Fantastic! Second only to “Heal and Toe”. How you manage to keep from becoming very emotional during these sermons is beyond me. I’ve written several things that I can not offer as a speech due to the emotions they evoke. Your ability, Sir, is beyond my understanding. Pray maintain speed and course.
Excellent...thanks!
Wow--that is a good story. The Ford and Edison involvement with that mill was enough...but the young boy/old man pocket knife put the story into orbit!!!
Great story
What a lovely story ... the honesty and reliability of the words of an earlier generation
And I must say, and although I am a young 69, you have a “grandfatherly” wise way of always reminding us of this heritage. Thank you.
That was a good story.. I hope the family watched this video
A great story, well told. Thank you. It brought back fond memories of 60-plus year younger me listening to an elderly miller explain his family's 1825 mill workings. He had grown up working there, as had his father and grandfather His love for that place was as strong as the one you saw. He kept it working until his death.
Thank you
I use to live nearby this place. It smelled wonderful inside when it was running.
Scott, what I love about this is its confirmation of the evolution that we experience today based upon the ideas and the work that was done by the generations before us that are the forgotten and unseen foundation of our work and processes today. And old tools, mechanisms, buildings, etc., have a place in my heart because they are milestones and remembrances of this evolution.
What a wonderful story. It evokes memories of my young days when I would labour with my father and other neighbours fully believing I was working as an equal even though I was only 10 years old. The internal pride I felt working with men I looked up to together with their patience and unspoken love I will never forget. I try so hard to be that man to my kids.
You're a gem. I really thank God for bringing you and your channel into my life.
I got choked up about that story . What a great tale.
Great, great story. As if the old man's life had come full circle; as if a seed planted 80+ years before, sprouted, into a legacy, or tree of remembrance. Not sure what I'm trying to say, but thank you. Thanks, Scott, great story!
Steve H.
I love hearing about our great past inventions and inventors. Now I want to go and see this place, thank you for this
Thanks for that story. We need more of that in this world...
Wow. Someone else who gets it. I just spent several days making a pair of legs for an old saddler's horse. I tried very hard to make a sympathetic repair. I want to keep it in service, and the old legs had just given out, but I replaced only what I had to replace, and those parts I tried to make true to the original, because I value the men who used it before me, and I want it to be useable for generations to come. Junk ends up out in the barn. Well cared for tools that are still useful retain a place of honor and are cared for. I'm planning on writing out what I did on a 3x5 card and tacking it to the underside, so there is some record of its past. It came to me with nothing, but I'll try to preserve what I did, anyway.
Scott, Thanks for this video. First, I am in the process of writing down things from my life that I remember so that my children & grandchildren will have an idea of what happened to me during my life. Recently I was relating something at a holiday dinner and my middle daughter says "Why haven't we heard this before?". Hopefully, someday they will get to read what I have written. Second, several years ago after my father passed @ 97 years old, we were cleaning out his workshop. There in the back of a drawer were a stack of old wooden planes that had been my Great Grandfathers (he was a cabinet maker) and an old carpenters mortice gauge marking tool. It waa so worn that he had put in new nails as a marker and the brass that rides along the edge was worn so thin that you could hardly see it. I cherish those tools.
I need to so the same, I have tools that I inherited from my grandfather, my father and a great uncle. I plan on taking photos of them and writing a brief description and provinonce of each.
Beautiful story! I'm so glad that man got to have his pocket knife for a few more years👍👍👍
Yes, one of those ethereal, just beyond words events that become a stake in the ground to tie our lives to. Well done.
I've watched nearly every video that you have produced, and I have to say without hesitation, this was my favorite one. The history, the way you describe in detail the story, the gestures and facial expressions, it is unparalleled. I could, as they say, listen to you read the dictionary or the phone book (do they still exist?) Have you ever considered as a part time future endeavor, reading for audio books? You should have your own tv show, it could be a mix of construction, blacksmithing, general family values and passing along that oh so important knowledge to the next generation. In 1985 I lost my step dad to cancer, I was 20 he was 46. I remember thinking when I turned 46 just how young that was and that I wished and still wish to this day that I would have really listened to what he had to teach me even more. I learned the electrical trade from him, but there was so much more that he was teaching me and I didn't even realize it until years later and even up to today. You have such a way about you. I hope and I'm sure this is the case, that your family cherishes you not just for what you know, but what you share with them. Thanks for listening, and ...."Keep up the good work"
History is something that should not be taken for granted! Nice video!
Thank you once again for this, the story of the pocketknife gave me goosebumps, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
Another enjoyable story that brings tears!! As THG says so aptly: History That Deserves To Be REMEMBERED!!! Thank You!!!
The Essential Clergy. you are a man of infinite skills and wisdom, sir. thank you
👍great story
My first knife, a Christmas gift, was lost within hours. I was so proud to be helping my dad feed hay off the truck and cutting twine with my own knife... and at some point it went out with a toss of a flake of hay. An exhaustive search would not convince the cows to give it back. It was a hard lesson about caring for my tools.
Thats the third time one of your wonderful stories had made my eyes leak just a little, my grandfather was a master monumental mason in Surrey England, I still use many of his tools in my little hobby workshop, and these real life stories make me think of him and my father, both now gone, but never forgotten, please please keep up the good work.
a story of real connection. Nothing better
Agreed. These types of experiences are some of my peak moments in existence, second only to watching my children be born and grow up. I bought a farm last year, which I am cleaning up from a sorry state of neglect. The greatest treasure I have found there is my new neighbour, who grew up in the old farm house. He showed me where, in 1918, his grandparents carved their names into the fieldstone foundation of the new barn they built. So many stories beyond that, with many more to tell. I hope I can hear them all. Keep telling these stories!
This is one of the neatest UA-cam videos I have seen in a long time and I have watched 100's of videos.
What a story and you are an inspiration. My husband has a few stories that over the years I've tried to encourage him to write down and share with others. You've inspired me to help him by making it easy. I'm off to find a dictation app so all he has to do is tell his stories to me again while it listens and writes it down for him.
Mr.Tripp's job seems like the best job I can think of. Very cool , thank you for sharing!
Brought tears to this old fellas eyes.
One of the "Best" Scott. It's a great story.
A fantastic story, wonderfully told. What a treat! Thanks for sharing.
Great story! Where I grew up (in the 1960's), in the village Macon Michigan, where I played around Henry Ford's Mill and the creek, and where I worked for old Mr. Hall, who worked for Henry Ford when he was young, explains why your story really resonates with me.
That is such a great story!!!! Imagine if they planted some decent old school style pocket knives in there and for any kids old enough who pays attention gets themselves a pocket knife they will never forget
I have always had a keen interest in waterpower. This was a beautiful lesson beyond waterpower. Thank you so much!
A great story told here by Scott... a great story teller.. Essential Craftsman is just as much about the quality of the craft as it is the historical relevance of old tools and the place those tools hold in the heirlooms and engineering marvels that they help create.
Thank you! This story touched my heart in a few ways, most importantly, the duty we have to our children. My grandfather was a pattern maker here in Springfield VT. Although he gave most of his tools away to another younger pattern maker, I still have a few. A quiet humble man that had great gift of encouragement to others. Seeing the best in people and their skills and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. A remarkable man at only 5'4".
Great story Scott. I've inherited some great hand tools from my dad when he died and I was just a 13 yr old. Now I have a professional shop where I keep some on the walls, and some in the tool drawers. They get used everyday. All made in America. Thanks for the post, from Montana.
I’ve peered through those windows dozens of times. Taken family pictures there and heard some of the history but had never had the opportunity to go inside and explore the way you have. Thank you for sharing your experience so that mine can be enhanced the next time I visit The Grist Mill.
Your ability to tell important stories is unparalleled. Now I just need some Cy Swan and my month will be complete!.
Such a neat story! Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you for 10 minutes of your wisened view of life's mysteries so many of which are often overlooked. Very touching, honest and real in what's become a plastic isolated world.
Sir, you just described what my soul wants to say about old machines. Thank you for the story and the video.
This is an amazing story and the ability to use the natural recourses to carry out an important task.
Great story! I love that pieces of our past and history are being preserved. There is so much we can learn from reflecting on how people used to live and why they did things.
I am moved by this wonderful story. Thank you.
There are several old functional mills in New England and plenty of old tools, but the human stories make them come alive.
Yes!
What a beautiful story of humans and their endeavors and time and family and the importance of moments.
Youre truly a great story teller Scott. Truly enjoy hearing your your take on historical places that I may never see. Keep your head up!
Awesome story. Thanks for sharing.
Your stories are so real. Thx
I was taught very young that old timers,
Like my grandpa's coveted not many things other than there pocket knives.
I still have my grandfather's nife.
It reminds me i come from a lineage of old world craftsman.
Who,s riches are not money.
They are wisdom, compassion & patience they shared with me.
Thank you. We love hearing these beautiful stories.
THANK YOU KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !
Well.. that story put a lump in my throat. Well done faithful servant.
Greetings from Australia.
My first pocket knife was not fancy, A friend gave it to me , it was made from pressed metal with pressed metal sides that soon fell off. Then the pins that held it together gave way. I can't remember exactly how but I know I repaired them. I kept that old knife on me for a couple of years. I used it all the time for the myriad of things that a pocket knife does well. A prized position for a 11 year old. I know the age because I know where I was living at the time. That was over 60 years ago. Sadly i dropped it on a long pier over the sea and it fell through the cracks in the boards and was lost. The water was deep. Watching your video account of the grist mill made me think back to using that knife. It is surprising how clearly events like this are retained in the mind.
You are right about old tools too. I particularly like the second hand tools I have accumulated that have names on them, sometimes more than one name. These human connections make a tool special. Spirits from the past that live on.
Fantastic story, by a gifted storyteller. Really made my day, thanks for sharing!
You just made me cry, in a good way. Thank you for sharing such a special story.
Thank you for sharing this. My great grandfather was the last in a line of millers. He and his family built mills around east central Alabama for many decades. This reminds me of him.
What an awesome experience you had! Love encounters like this. Wish I had a memory like that old man.👍
Sitting here in Cardiff South Wales UK listening to the story it brings a tear to my eye keep up the good work
What a touching story. My first pocket knife was a Boy Scout knife that I received when I started in Cub Scouts. It slipped from my hand and fell into a campfire. By the time I was able to fish it out, the plastic side had melted. 70 years later I still have that knife and remember that camping trip as though it were yesterday..............Thank you Scott
I still have and use some of my Dads old tools. They always bring back very clear happy memories. Ok as well as some of the times we fell out. When we used them together years ago.
Such a wonderful story.
Great, moving story. Ranks up there with the blacksmiths grave marker. I am sure there are others and we are indeed fortunate to be able to share them.
Awesome story! I love to use tools from those much older than me, and I’m 66 already. To image that person that once held that tool and to give it life once more. Causes me to work a little slower, to take more care in what I do, to reflect on days gone by that were much simpler. That’s why I love old tools-time travel at its best!❤️
That story is very moving. Thank you for telling it to us.
Thanks for sharing this beautiful Mill video and the stories! Every mill has a interesting stories and history you can almost smel and hear walking around the mill itself.