Sanbornton Historical Society to host program on New England stone walls on April 8

On Thursday, April 8, the Sanbornton Historical Society will host the program “The Granite Kiss: Traditions and Techniques of Building New England Stone Walls”, presented by Kevin Gardner, at 7 p.m. at the Old Town Hall on Meetinghouse Hill Rd in Sanbornton Square. SHS meetings are open to the public, free of charge. Refreshments will be provided.

Gardner’s informal talk covers a few of the main topics of his book about New England stone walls, The Granite Kiss (Countryman Press), touching on history, technique, stylistic development, and aesthetics. He explains how and why New England came to acquire its thousands of miles of stone walls, the ways in which they and other dry stone structures were built, how their styles emerged and changed over time, and their significance to the famous New England landscape. Other topics may include: differences in approach between historical and contemporary wall-builders, a discussion of restoration tips and techniques, and information about design, acquisition of materials, preservation, and analysis.

During his presentation, Gardner will build a miniature wall or walls on a tabletop, using tiny stones from a five-gallon bucket. He often brings along his collection of books about stonework, and copies of The Granite Kiss will be available for sale. There will be a question-and-answer period, during which listeners are encouraged to bring up specific problems or projects on their own properties.

Gardner is a writer, teacher, tradesman, and a lifelong resident of Hopkinton. For more than 30 years he has been a stone wall builder in a family business widely known for traditional New England stonework, particularly for historic restoration of antique structures. Profiles and other information about Kevin have appeared in numerous and he has been featured on WMUR’s television magazine Chronicle, in New Hampshire Profiles magazine, and in many local newspapers and other publications. Since 1985, Kevin has also been a performance critic, feature writer, and producer for NH Public Radio.

For general information contact: Linda Salatiello, 286-4526 or email info lanetavern.org. For information on the Sanbornton Historical Society, go to lanetavern.org

The Sanbornton Historical Society would like to thank all the members, friends, participants, and townspeople who have so generously supported our programs fundraisers that have enabled the Society to undertake and successfully complete various preservation endeavors and our monthly programs. The SHS is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 organization so any donations are tax deductible.