Makers on the Mountain
A series of demonstrations of historic skills and crafts in our Historic Park.
Offering hands on opportunities for visitors to learn, ask questions and even lend a hand.
Catch our talented Historic Park staff members and volunteers in the act. Learn how things were done in the 1800s and maybe even lend a hand. Have questions? Our interpreters are happy to share information and answer questions about what they are doing along the way. Although the skills demonstrated are from the past, many of them have modern applications too.
Makers on the Mountain: Plein-air Pastel Drawing
We invite all who feel inspired to experience the joy of creating art outdoors in the beauty of Burritt’s Historic Park. From 10:00 to 3:00, plein-air easels stocked with paper and soft pastels will be set up throughout the grounds, ready for anyone who wishes to draw from nature in a peaceful, welcoming environment. Plein-air (“open air”) painting and drawing have a rich history stretching back centuries. Artists around the world have long stepped outside their studios to capture light, color, and landscape directly from life.
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Makers on the Mountain: Featuring Tim Martin, Traditional Chairmaker
Tim Martin is a North Alabama artisan whose craftsmanship reflects his lifelong immersion in woodworking. With a style that blends deeply rooted traditional techniques with sculptural artistry and historical craftsmanship, Tim’s chairs marry traditional Appalachian craftsmanship through his meticulous hand-tool joinery and historical construction techniques with his artist’s sensibility for sculptural form. Each piece stands as a unique, functional work of art that honors both legacy and aesthetic expression. Come join us as he demonstrates this time-honored tradition of furniture making from 10:00-3:00 on the Meals porch in the Historic Park. Free with admission.
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Makers on the Mountain featuring: Reed Carpenter with Carpenter Carpentry
Join us for a Makers Day with Reed Carpenter of Carpenter Carpentry as he demonstrates traditional pen making in front of the Eddins and Chandler Houses in the Historic Park from 10:00-3:00pm. Using a handheld lathe and finely selected hardwoods, Reed transforms simple wood blanks into beautifully crafted writing instruments while sharing insights into turning techniques, tool selection, and the artistry behind functional woodcraft. Visitors are invited to stop by, watch the process up close, and learn how precision, patience, and creativity come together in this engaging demonstration.
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