A reminder, with more details, from Sally McGaffigan at the Historical Society – Lil

Walpole Historical Society Speaker Series

Discovering New England Stone Walls

 April 8, 2014, 7 pm Walpole Town Hall

 The stone walls of New England are the fascinating subject of an upcoming presentation by Kevin Gardner, noted authority on the stone walls of New England, at the Walpole Town Hall on April 8 at 7 pm. Mr. Gardner, knowledgeable about both the history and technique of stone wall building, will offer a memorable experience to the audience during the presentation, entitled Discovering New England Stone Walls.   As he describes the many aspects of the extensive stone wall building which characterizes the New England landscape, he will gradually construct a  miniature stone wall on a tabletop.  Mr. Gardner is the fourth speaker in the Walpole Historical Society’s speaker series, which is free and open to the public.

Mr. Gardner brings wide experience, practical and theoretical, to the subject of stone walls.  A New Hampshire native, he has been involved in a family business of stone wall construction and is also the author of “The Granite Kiss,” about New England stone walls.  In both his book and his talk, Mr. Gardner explores the history, technique, stylistic development, and aesthetics of stone walls.  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.  If time permits, he may also discuss 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. The talk will conclude with a question-and-answer period, during which listeners are encouraged to bring up specific problems or projects on their own properties.  For further information, please contact the Walpole Historical Society through http://www.WalpoleHistory.org.