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Located in Colonial Williamsburg, VA, the coopers yard is a lean-to style shed on the North end of town. Not only are barrels being made, but basket weaving is also practiced with great skill and speed that will astonish you. Here the weaver is starting the first basket for the day. Once he steps aside I manage to get a close up of the basket itself. The samples nearby are testament to his ability.
Meanwhile, at the shaving horse at the other side of the shed, the cooper is shaving barrel staves with a razor sharp drawknife. A closer look reveals the details of the shaving horse upon which he sits.
Don't miss the cooper's yard the next time you are at Colonial Williamsburg. I could sit for hours and watch. Remember, you can ask questions too. The staff are excellent and very informative.
More information about visiting this and other interesting exhibits can be found at the Colonial Williamsburg web site. It is a well done site but be careful, it is very large and you can get lost!
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