The face behind the name
Growing up in a rural town in central Massachusetts old farmers' walls, various weathered stones and structures of all shapes and sizes were all around as you traveled across the roads. My first involvement with fieldstone was building a retaining wall for a small landscape company I worked for. It would be safe to say I didn't know what I was getting myself into, because I liked it. I understood the process though as if it was in my blood, little did I know it actually was, but at the time was lacking the experience to recognize how it is an enduring form of art.
The novice description word was "Grasshopper" from the TV show Kung Fu. Throughout my thirty years since my 'grasshopper' days, I've come to see stone in a different way. Drawn into it by habit, a respect is given to those who move it and those who have put it together with thought. I've gained the experience, knowledge, skill, and passion for stone realizing that this trade (stonemasonry) is certainly not for everyone. It's not only physically demanding, but it is also mentally demanding. A nice day with a good radio by your side does make the day go by easier.
What I appreciate most though is the creative way of using natural stone materials, granite, and clay brick in a way that creates a level of character. Restoring the look and feel of old New England stonewalls and gardens in the contemporary or traditional style of dry stonemasonry is my preferred way of complimenting the landscape. The reward is a finish product satisfying the client, the design, and the landscape for many years to come.
I look forward to sharing my ideas, my craftsmanship, and to enjoy a pleasurable working experience with you for your project.
Joe
