A wonderful wall builder whose work I featured in my last book, Outdoor Stonework, just sent me this picture of one of his recent projects. John Shaw-Rimmington writes:
"The Dry Stone Wall Association of Canada held a special bridge building course July 29 through to August 6th at Karlo Estates near Wellington in Prince Edward County, Ontario 2007. Over the 9 day period, men and women of various backgrounds coming from as far away as Texas, Alberta and Quebec attended this special hands-on workshop...A stunning dry stone bridge, with a width of 8 feet and extending a distance of 40 feet in length, was constructed to span an opening of 12 feet, over a small creek that runs through the vineyard estate.This 38 ton bridge structure was completed, working with simple tools using the traditional dry stone method, constructed without using cement, structural adhesives, steel fasteners, and except for a tractor, (to bring materials closer) did not involve the use any heavy machinery. Participants learned elements of bridge design, site preparation and stone shaping & fitting. The Hubb Creek Bridge, as it is now called, is primarily a foot bridge, and represents a significant achievement in terms of the standard of dry stone craftsmanship that can be imparted to a group of individuals processing the right mix of enthusiasm for dry stone walling, dedication to the project, willingness to work hard and the capacity to implement the basic principles of structure."
And even more, it's quite simply an object of beauty.
