Mid Atlantic Folks....

[Ken Hill]

The logging has started here and will be ongoing over the coming weeks. If anyone wants to come out and gather some wood (mainly crotch white and red oak, cherry and some other types) You are more then welcome. There is no way I will ever be able to process and store the 7 acres I am logging so feel free. I will be cutting out anything I see that will make good turning wood but I will have no where to properly store it for long.

25427 is my zip code so you can see whether or not the trip is worth your travel.

[Dan Hintz]

You're about a half hour west of Mike (Cruz)... I'll have to get with him and look at making a trip out there.

[Ken Hill]

Can do. I have saws and anchorseal so no worries there. There is alot of mineral stain in these trees so you never quite know what you will end up with, ive gotten some really nice wood from them and they will spalt very easily....not sure if the mineral content affects that or not.

The plate I just turned was cut out of a crotch a year ago and AS....it is pretty typical for most of the stuff here (one reason for logging was the ash borer damage and the damage from 60 inches of snow and high wind took alot of tops out)

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Calls/CMR2701/1074963744_JG3QT-M.jpg

[John Keeton]

Nice offer, Ken! But, a bit of a fur piece for me!

[Dan Hintz]

Oooooh, love the figure... great movement. That's exactly what I look for, I find the plain wood somewhat boring. I sent an email to Mike asking if he'd like to take a trip out there and help, and I'm also trying to set up a trip to Hearne Hardwoods in PA some weekend...

[Ken Hill]

John, I still have a few Persimmon logs that have been doing their thing. Ive been waiting for the temps to drop before cutting it up and your name is all over a piece or two of it...I want to see what you can do with it :D

I still have 4 or 5 Walnut logs to process...its going to be an extremely busy fall and winter! I believe I will be trying to use my 6x6x6 oven to dry some of this stuff. If I can get it in a dry state for my calls and such I can store it alot better. Ive come to the conclusion that cutting 2 inch thick slabs with my 660 and Alaska Mill and stickering the slabs will be easier and alot faster (thinking call blanks) The bowl and plate stuff....it can be left in log form and AS till I need it, but I would hate to see alot of this hit my woodstove!

[Mike Cruz]

Hey, I'd love to come by. I'll be "out" for a couple of weeks, so it would have to be after that, though. But, yeah, I'm in.

[Baxter Smith]

Thanks for the offer! It would be a drive but I would love to meet some other creeker turners. More free wood is good too!

[Dan Hintz]

Any chance we can make it a turner tutorial day? :) I'm collecting bits o' wood as the days/weeks go by, but I have yet to lay my hands on an actual lathe (if the auction goes well in two weeks, that will change). It would be extremely helpful to see what tools I should be shopping for, basic safety tips, etc.

[Bernie Weishapl]

Wow wish I was closer. That wood looks awesome.

[Ken Hill]

Dan I dont know how much help I could be to you but youre more then welcome. The heavy rain here today has us not cutting trees down but tomorrow I expect to be dropping alot and i will have a better idea of what I will have virtually immediatley. I WILL cut and seal anything I come across because I am trying to keep up with the cutters (yeah right) on keeping the tops cleaned up. I also have to get behind them and cut the stumps which have provided some really nice grain structure so as you can see...busy busy beaver.

[Mike Cruz]

Oh, sure Baxter, go to his place but not mine... I see how you are. :( :D Hope we can meet up.

[Mike Cruz]

So, right now, it looks like Ken (of course), Dan, Baxter, and myself. We need to come up with a date that will be good for all (or at least most) of us. Again, I'm in, but it will be a couple weeks. If ya'll decide to go earlier, I'd hate to miss out, but completely understand. I know there are a couple other turners around here that might make it out, too.

[Ken Hill]

Yall have plenty of time. Deer season (rifle ) starts here the monday of Thanksgiving week....but I will have the majority out of the woods by then and staged in a woodlot. I will start seperating crotch pieces from the firewood big and small so whoever comes out can pick through it etc. I just came in from cutting so after a shower to dry off:eek: i will go take some pics so yall know I aint foolon ya:cool::D

[Rob Cunningham]

Wow, that's some beautiful wood. I'd like to take some off your hands and meet some other creekers, but it's a 3 1/2 hour drive one way :(.

[Ken Hill]

Ok..here we go. Day 1

The landing was set up and they brought down a few trees before quiting time.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2723/1077478943_kSi46-L.jpg

My woodpile for next year is going to be rather large. Once I cut enough for next year I will start storing the wood in log form and wait to break it down.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2725/1077479050_F4njV-L.jpg

Staging area for wood to be processed into blanks and slabs...this is where I will start storing the crotch and other wood worth doing something with

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2727/1077478834_uv8Vr-L.jpg

Looking out over one bottom

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2735/1077479291_eHz3p-L.jpg

[Tony De Masi]

I don't think I could pass this up. Looking forward to meeting other Creekers as well. I'm in.

[Ken Hill]

I dont think they will want that severly deformed tree, and i will try to just have them push it over...thats some serious reaction wood right there!

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2734/1077479171_Xbnhz-L.jpg

Another that I dont think they will want but lord only knows how old it is and to be growing at that angle

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2731/1077487436_BYyvg-L.jpg

View down the top ridge. The majority of trees you see here will be gone

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2729/1077487209_yNdZL-L.jpg

[Ken Hill]

A big crotch just waiting to be broken down

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2728/1077487107_BqA3b-L.jpg

Another one I cut out a bit ago. I cant get it out due to the hillside being to wet for the tractor but she will be waiting for yall

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2732/1077487541_7n9N4-L.jpg

That "leaning " tree in the background is about a 90 footer...its complete out of the ground and hanging in the limbs of the other trees! The weather hasnt been kind here the past year or so

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2730/1077487303_aTyJW-L.jpg

The stumps can provide some excellent grain...my 660 will handle them and i will have to split them and AS right away

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2733/1077487021_LvU6i-L.jpg

I hate to see it go but its the right time and thing to do for the health of the woods.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2737/1077479512_6hWXZ-L.jpg

[Ken Hill]

Several trees have dual bells...I am pretty sure they will cut them seperate and I will get the stump. In the past, this type of growth has produced some intense grain structure

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2736/1077479409_DXjXz-L.jpg

I will keep the locals out of here....or try:p teh wife will make deer stew, deer chili and other foods to keep every one fed...coffee, tea water etc. If you go hungry around here its your own fault!

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR4221/1077479624_M2XGK-L.jpg

[Mike Cruz]

I'll eat deer, but I don't think I'll be too keen on raccoon. ;)

[Ken Hill]

Me either...but I hear the high society folks are starting to eat them in NY!!!

The Bucks are in rut in mid November and my wife goes into Betty Crocker mode so im sure cookies and such will abound.

[Dan Hintz]

Rob,

I'm a few miles west of I-95 in Columbia, if that makes the drive a bit more palatable... let me know what you're interested in and I can grab it for you.

[Ken Hill]

Dan, you need to check craigslist for a guy in Clarksville that has his own sawmill. he builds custom bows from what i understand and you can pick his piles for cheap. I got 1/2 a pick up truck load of Osage from him for $35!

[Mike Cruz]

I used to live in Clarksville! Where in Clarksville is he?

[Ken Hill]

Not sure Dan, I found him on craigslist and my brother (lives in Carroll Co) picked it up. A few weeks back i saw he had firewood listed of all types but most of it is his cut offs....

[Roger Chandler]

Ken,

I live about 2-1/2 hours or so, according to map quest, and I cannot at this time commit for certain, but would like to join in. A lot of it depends on when the time is set for the work. Weekends are tough for me, but sometimes I can work it out if I have enough advance notice.

Keep me informed, by private message if need be, and maybe contact info like email or whatever. Maybe I can work it out..........we will see......sure looks like a great gathering of "Creekers." It will be nice to meet them all! :)

[Ken Hill]

Will do Roger

[Jim Burr]

I think I would have died and gone to bowl blank heaven. I used to think living in California was great...skiing, the ocean...ever try to turn water?:mad: Im am so jealous of you guys!:(:(

[Mike Cruz]

That would be great if you could make it Roger!

I am not tied to weekends, either. It is easier on weekends, but I could possibly get out on a M, W, or F...with enough notice. Whatever works for the majority.

[Roger Chandler]

That would be great if you could make it Roger!

I am not tied to weekends, either. It is easier on weekends, but I could possibly get out on a M, W, or F...with enough notice. Whatever works for the majority.

Mike,

I could make it on a Monday or Friday, most likely. I guess if I can make it, I should bring my pickup and my Husqvarna. Hope it is not dead in the middle of deer hunting ..........but wood hunting is good also! :D

[Ken Hill]

Roger, my last event of the year was last weekend (wedding in Ohio) so as far as I am aware I have the next 3 months off.

Now sundays during rifle season dont matter, but yall will be knocking on a door to an empty house come the week of Turkey day....then there is Bear season haha!

It will all work out for everyone. I am hitting the sack in a few minutes, 4:30 am comes early. Hunting until the loggers roll in then working all day on the wood until I run them out of here so I can get back in the treestand!

Get them chains shrpened....I would say by next week I will have plenty set aside. I geuss the best bet is to give it a few days...maybe next week then try and decide on a dat for the folks that want to come out. that way I will know what I have at that time and you all can decide if its enough or would like to wait until we get more down.

[Roger Chandler]

Roger, my last event of the year was last weekend (wedding in Ohio) so as far as I am aware I have the next 3 months off.

Now sundays during rifle season dont matter, but yall will be knocking on a door to an empty house come the week of Turkey day....then there is Bear season haha!

It will all work out for everyone. I am hitting the sack in a few minutes, 4:30 am comes early. Hunting until the loggers roll in then working all day on the wood until I run them out of here so I can get back in the treestand!

Get them chains shrpened....I would say by next week I will have plenty set aside. I geuss the best bet is to give it a few days...maybe next week then try and decide on a dat for the folks that want to come out. that way I will know what I have at that time and you all can decide if its enough or would like to wait until we get more down.

Sounds like a plan Ken!

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, for me, it really isn't about there being "enough". If I leave with one piece, it will be plenty. As of right now, I have MORE than enough to turn. I would just love meeting more forum members and love shop tours.

Not to at ALL steal this thread or Ken's glory, but anyone who has a haul to get to Ken's, if you wanted to hit a motel for the night or something, and want to swing by my place, too, you are certainly welcome.

Hey, we should have a shop tour tour. Ya know, get a group of 5 or 6 of us that live in relative close proximity, and all tour each other's shops. :rolleyes: Maybe even have a little turning fun at each place with wood from that place, or we can bring our own...

[Dale Bright]

Ken and all.

Have ChainSaw, Will Travel! I am only about an hour away in Purcellville, VA. I can come and help out and a little wood to turn would be great. Let me know when the meet is and if at all possible I will come. It would be nice to meet some fellow Creekers. I get to Hedgesville for work ocassionally.

Dale Bright

[Baxter Smith]

Oh, sure Baxter, go to his place but not mine... I see how you are. :( :D Hope we can meet up.
Sorry Mike! :) Didn't mean to make it sound like I would definitely be there! Just sounded like a whole lot of fun. Three and a half hours oneway would take all the free out of it and I need more green wood to rough out before it goes bad like I need a .........Still its tempting!:D

[Mike Cruz]

Hehe, no problem. I know you were thinking of coming here, too. I think it just didn't work with schedules...;)

[Mike Cruz]

Sounds like we got us a party!!!!!!

[brian watts]

WOW that alot of wood.. wish i didnot live so far away...are you still going to deer hunt there?

[Ray Bell]

Ken, I live way too far away to join you in your generous offer, but if you decide to blank any of this, and sell it, I'm in.

[Ken Hill]

WOW that alot of wood.. wish i didnot live so far away...are you still going to deer hunt there?


Yes sir.

While I will loose a great deal of acorns(I am making sure to keep some white oaks) I will be turning the majority of the cleared area into a 5 acre food plot. My house sits on around 7 acres as well which ajoins this lot im logging and it is basically one big food plot as well.

This is right out of the kitchen window. I have around 20 Persimmon trees in the back yard as well as a nice food plot that flows into a field that is split each year between a planting of Oats and clovers. All this and they still manage to tear my gardens apart!

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/dilla1892/895009996_VsUVH-O.jpg

Now I would be lying if I didnt say I have another reason for the clearing and that is we plan on selling and buying a much larger place land wise in the near future. I really would like no less then 100 to 150 acres so that I can do a high fence operation and raise my own deer. My favorite subject to photograph is the Whitetail Deer and I spend so much time going after them that having a few that are tame in a large enclosure (say 5 acres) to photograph and study is my dream.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/DSC2557/736422574_botJj-L.jpg

There just isnt enough room here nor is it the ideal location (too many houses and dogs and such) for me to want to remain here much longer so I do not wish to invest into the deer beyond what I already have going here. Ive only ever shot at a managed deer farm once, and it was incredilbe, howevere every other shot you will see me post is of wild deer and I acknowldge the deer farm pics as being captive when I do post them.

Any hunter will tell you how much of a thrill it is (im sure you know) to watch deer, and for me catching it on film rivals any ive ever been able to harvest. This was one of my favorite pictures from last year, I spent almost a week without getting a shot then this small buck chased the doe right to me.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/DSC3129/746523886_yQXfH-L.jpg

Getting close to such magnificant animals is just amazing. I hope that I can get the new cleared area drawing in deer so I can do some photography here before we eventually move. I have one kid that graduates this year then he will be off to college to become a wildlife biologist and a younger son that will still have 4 years of high school so realistically, im thinking 3 to 5 years out before we can move....much of which depends on teh economy and market.

How cool would it be to be able to walk out side, and stare down your own buck that wont run at the meere smell of you haha! My two best bucks of 2009, both wild deer

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/BCK0020/615065958_SrtWJ-L.jpg

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/DSC1872/618511031_pAUic-L.jpg

Closest of the year. She actually fogged up my lens!

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/EDT9178/735972667_HzyUG-L.jpg

I apologise for the long post, it is a subject I am so involved in that I cant stop LOL! I hope to look back on my life and know that I left it all on the table and that my images will show exactly that.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery/BEA9698/744344274_wT5BV-L.jpg

I also spent over a week last spring in my canoe watching an Osprey nest. Between the weather and the birds being a tad bit shy, it was tough. Finally I managed tp get a shot that I liked.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Wildife-and-Nature/543032771bck17401/973521745_Zm4mf-L.jpg

Fawn bedded down in the backyard

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Animals/Whitetail-Deer/DSC9972/444024838_hFRUy-L-2.jpg

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, if you've taken any persimmon down, and it is sizeable, I might not mind stealing a log (6 feet in length maybe) to get milled. Let me know if that is possible. Of course, for a fee...

[Ken Hill]

These are from the deer farm. It was only a 2 acre area and very very hard to get images without showing the enclosure. They raise these deer to sell the sperm and fawns to other farms. Quite lucritive I must say. He specializes in Albino and Piebald deer

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Animals/Whitetail-Deer/DSC7974/444562556_4pJoQ-L-2.jpg

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Animals/Whitetail-Deer/SOM9799/444576937_oHyNx-L-1.jpg

[Roger Chandler]

Ken,

Simply incredible! thanks for posting these pics.........I hope the mods will let them stay on the turning forum, after all, this thread is about harvesting turning wood!

Sure hope the logistics come together for all the "creekers" to be able to make the wood harvest.

[Dan Hintz]

Absolutely frikkin' amazing, Ken... I think I painted an Osprey shot similar to that when I was in high school.

On a similar note... any chance you have antlers no one wanted (or from a buck which passed of natural causes)? Looking for pen blank material, so the pieces don't need to be huge or in one tree...

[Roger Chandler]

Absolutely frikkin' amazing, Ken... I think I painted an Osprey shot similar to that when I was in high school.

On a similar note... any chance you have antlers no one wanted (or from a buck which passed of natural causes)? Looking for pen blank material, so the pieces don't need to be huge or in one tree...


Dan,

With all the requests for persimmon and antler, we could call this a "one stop shopping trip to Ken's woodturning blank emporium!" :D:D;)

[Ken Hill]

I have a few tubs full of horns...

I usually pick up sheds and road kills throughout the year. I ued to make rings without a lathe and they were usually great for this. Last year I did not get a single horn due to the 60 inches of snow. Im sure they are out there but I dont tromp through these hills when the Rattlers are out!

A buddy of mine actually trained his Lab to locate dead stuff....usually she would hit on horn and he really racked up the sheds!

BTW...if i had to get paid for some of teh road kills ive cut the horns off....noone could afford it haha! YUCK!

[Ken Hill]

Ken, if you've taken any persimmon down, and it is sizeable, I might not stealing a log (6 feet in length maybe) to get milled. Let me know if that is possible. Of course, for a fee...


I dont believe I have anything that large down. I usually wont cut them down unless they are dying etc. I know where one is down, and i will try and stop by that place and see if I can have it before they decide it is good enough to burn. Infact I gathered a few hundred of the fruits when they dropped, dried them and took the seeds out. The seeds are in the fridge until its below freezing most of the day then they go outside...they have to go through a good period of freeze before they will germinate or so im told.

I will also try and drop a few of those Ironwood (Leo posted the name of it in a thread a few weeks back) It makes great tool handles from what I understand and I have some that should measure 12 to 15 inches in diameter. I have to cut my neighbors bottom and its loaded with it.

[Mike Cruz]

What does your neighbor think of having his bottom cut? :D

[Dan Hintz]

Tagua Nuts (Ironwood) make a beautiful carving substrate... the artists on the Caribbean Islands make some amazing pieces out of it.

I see lots of talk about crotches... come across any burls while roaming out there?

[Rob Cunningham]

Rob,

I'm a few miles west of I-95 in Columbia, if that makes the drive a bit more palatable... let me know what you're interested in and I can grab it for you.

Thanks for the offer Dan. I'm kinda in the same situation as Baxter, I don't really need more green wood but, the offer is tempting. I'll keep watching this post to see when the event is taking place. Maybe we can work something out.

[brian watts]

ken the pic is so cool to see . i understand why you doint it now and hope you get to do what you want to with more land. i really like to watch deer, turkey anything like that . turkey hunting if what i love to do and i really like just to call to them just something about for me. if you ever get any persimmon and want to get it gone let me know..

[Ken Hill]

I love Turkeys as well...wary bird! We get a few on here but I believe that there isnt enough open ground for them to feed here regularly. Maybe with a few more acres they will become regulars here as well. I am 2 minutes from 23,000 acres of public land that has quite a few birds so its my own fault for not going after them harder!

I have a fair amount of pen blank size pieces of spalted persimmon. Its beautiful. I dont really have a want for turning pens but figured at some point I may find a use for it. I have a few logs that I will process this fall and may have some to spare. This area is loaded with it....most folks find it a pest and when cut it hits the fireplace:( Let me know what sizes you would like and I will make sure to set some aside.

We cut here most of the day yesterday. I caught a Flying Squirrel! Its only the 2nd one ive ever seen here and he happened to be hiding right next to a log I picked up. I carried him to a spot we werent cutting and let him go. They are so cool!

The crotches are starting to add up. I have to get my tractor down there to load them in the bucket and will do that today after I get out of the treestand. They cut some Maple, pretty plain but will spalt out really fast here. Monday they are supposed to really crank up the cutting and hauling so I should get an idea and some more pics by mid week so you all can see where we are at. I beleive I have some ELM here as well....not sure if thats a choice species for turning or not...along with some Shagbark Hickory

[brian watts]

I love Turkeys as well...wary bird! We get a few on here but I believe that there isnt enough open ground for them to feed here regularly. Maybe with a few more acres they will become regulars here as well. I am 2 minutes from 23,000 acres of public land that has quite a few birds so its my own fault for not going after them harder!

I have a fair amount of pen blank size pieces of spalted persimmon. Its beautiful. I dont really have a want for turning pens but figured at some point I may find a use for it. I have a few logs that I will process this fall and may have some to spare. This area is loaded with it....most folks find it a pest and when cut it hits the fireplace:( Let me know what sizes you would like and I will make sure to set some aside.

We cut here most of the day yesterday. I caught a Flying Squirrel! Its only the 2nd one ive ever seen here and he happened to be hiding right next to a log I picked up. I carried him to a spot we werent cutting and let him go. They are so cool!

The crotches are starting to add up. I have to get my tractor down there to load them in the bucket and will do that today after I get out of the treestand. They cut some Maple, pretty plain but will spalt out really fast here. Monday they are supposed to really crank up the cutting and hauling so I should get an idea and some more pics by mid week so you all can see where we are at. I beleive I have some ELM here as well....not sure if thats a choice species for turning or not...along with some Shagbark Hickory


2"x2" stuff just let me know..thanks brian

[Ken Hill]

Hophornbeam is that wood Leo and others ID'd....

[Dan Hintz]

Pen and stopper blanks are what I'm looking for at the moment. I'm told once I start turning I'll want bigger stuff, but until I get some place to store the blanks, there's little point in clear-cutting a forest for my sake :-p

[Ken Hill]

Dan, that phase goes by very fast! I wish I had left some of what i cut into call blanks (1.5x1.5) larger for other turnings. Ofcourse I can just go cut more when I need it thankfully!

Do you have a way to cut up the blanks? I will make sure i have a fresh blade on my bandsaw if needed.

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, as for persimmon, and other non turning projects, Iuse blanks thay are 2x2.5x4". That is finished block dimensions, not rough dimensions. Spalted perssimon in that size would be awesome if you have any to spare. Heck even not spalted persimon in that size would be great. I can't wait to come see your place it sounds beautiful.

[Dan Hintz]

Ken,

I have a brand spankin' new Jet 18", 3HP bandsaw sitting in the workshop, awaiting reassembly (I had to take it apart to make it light enough to get it into the shop) and the time to add some 220V outlets.

[Mike Cruz]

So, what is the plan? Do we have a or a couple of dates that anyone wants to throw out there for a get together?

[Ken Hill]

Im pretty much good on any sunday through december. Any saturday is good really as well, I can stay out of the stand long enough to hang out haha

I forgot to grab a pic of the crotch pieces (around 20 so far) but here is a pic from today of my firewood pile:eek: I tripled its size today:D the wife and youngst kid are tired...lightweights:p

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2799/1081332054_rv2qG-L.jpg

[Dan Hintz]

Unless the SO makes other plans for me, I'm good for most any weekend day(s). This particular weekend was a bit of a bear (moving/restacking 3 tons of pellets, getting all of the old remodeling drywall/wood paneling out of the house and into a dumpster, followed by dinner with friends), but I don't see that as a common occurrence again any time soon.

Seeing the prices on Jet's wood lathes during their sale, I'm sorely tempted to pick up something bigger, just in case I get bitten... but I'm still going after that 9x20 metal lathe :)

[Roger Chandler]

Sunday is a no go for me............My responsibilities to my job preclude my being able to join in for a Sunday wood cutting session.

[Ken Hill]

Saturdays would be fine, yall just might have to tap the horn so I can come out of the treestand:D

The 20th would be ok

27th wouldnt be good for me....2 states deer seasons going on...I dont even see the wife for days haha

Dec 4th might be doable, my son won his class championship racing his atv and that the day of the banquet but not positive we are going, its in the city, I dont do cities.

Most any saturday after that is fine as well.

the wood will be here when it can be arranged...no worries there!

[James Combs]

How far are you from Cumberland Maryland? I may be there on a mission trip in December. Cumberland is 6-7 hours from home so another hour or so wouldn't be bad.

[Ken Hill]

I reckon around an hour. I can make it 45 minutes but I know the roads....it can also take me all day...pretty country between here and there:D

[Dale Bright]

The 20th is good for me but that is without checking with my Chief Executve.

Dale

[Mike Cruz]

20th might work for me as well. Have to check with the boss, though.

Hey, Dan (or anyone else coming from this direction) wanna carpool?

[Tony De Masi]

The 20th works for me too. It's still deer season but I've had a good year so far so one day not in the woods won't kill me.

[Mike Cruz]

Just got the Okie-Dokie from the wife for the 20th! Time? Personally, I'd love to make it fairly early...by 10:00 or s0. That way we'll have time for wood lookin-at-in, and shop-lookin-at-in, and turnin-taling-aboutin. If you guys want to do earlier, fine with me, but I wanted those with longer drives to have it a bit easier...

[Ken Hill]

Im up at 4:30 am so anytime is good.

[Dan Hintz]

As far as I'm aware, the 20th works for me... I'll verify with my calendar and CEO when I get home.

[Mike Cruz]

Baxter, Rob, Roger (and anyone else) will the 20th work for you guys, too?

[Roger Chandler]

Baxter, Rob, Roger (and anyone else) will the 20th work for you guys, too?


Mike,

Go ahead and plan on the 20th because it works for most of you guys. I am not certain as of yet on my schedule..........If I can work it out I will, but again at this point I cannot commit for certain......

Looks like a great gathering, and if I can do it, then I will........I just have a couple of things up in the air at this time, and if I get them settled then I will gladly take the time and meet some fellow "Creekers." :)

[Ken Hill]

Sounds like the 20th it is then!

The crotches are adding up, along with a huge bell I snaked out today. The firewood pile alone has some nice coloring so no one should have any problems getting their fill. I have a very very very large black cherry tree that I will have down for this date as well. Its coming down regardless so I might as well try and time it so yall can have some of it as well. I reckon its 20+ inches at the base, maybe larger. Top broke out of it and it had no leaves this year so its gotta go. I hope to mill some of it into slabs but good lord its big.

They should be dropping a Hickory or two....not sure what else they have in there. Im finding trees I did not know I had. I think Elm is on the list. I will have a few trees down and hauled up, not sure what they are but it only takes a few seconds to cut out sections to see if its to be turning wood or destined for the woodstove. I should have some Maple crotches as well.

For those that cant make this date, there will be plenty of wood here if you need to come at another time. Ive pretty much stopped cutting firewood and will start hauling logs to be stored for the coming years.

The wife said she would make sure there were plenty of snacks, drinks and coffee and im sure she will make sure noone leaves hungry.

[David E Keller]

Sounds like the 20th it is then!

The crotches are adding up, along with a huge bell I snaked out today. The firewood pile alone has some nice coloring so no one should have any problems getting their fill. I have a very very very large black cherry tree that I will have down for this date as well. Its coming down regardless so I might as well try and time it so yall can have some of it as well. I reckon its 20+ inches at the base, maybe larger. Top broke out of it and it had no leaves this year so its gotta go. I hope to mill some of it into slabs but good lord its big.

They should be dropping a Hickory or two....not sure what else they have in there. Im finding trees I did not know I had. I think Elm is on the list. I will have a few trees down and hauled up, not sure what they are but it only takes a few seconds to cut out sections to see if its to be turning wood or destined for the woodstove. I should have some Maple crotches as well.

For those that cant make this date, there will be plenty of wood here if you need to come at another time. Ive pretty much stopped cutting firewood and will start hauling logs to be stored for the coming years.

The wife said she would make sure there were plenty of snacks, drinks and coffee and im sure she will make sure noone leaves hungry.

This thread has been a source for serious jealousy for me! I wish I lived anywhere within striking distance of this little gathering... It sounds like it's gonna be a lot of fun.

Which one of you is renting the Uhaul to get all of your turning treasures back to the home shop:eek:? It looks like you could fill one, and Ken wouldn't notice much difference in the old 'firewood' pile.:D

I do hope there will be pictures posted, but with Ken's photo skills, I don't think I've got much to worry about.

[Ken Hill]

I will make sure to get plenty of pictures. My oldest son said he would help lift, pull , roll and load anything he can as long as he doesnt have to work (being 17 and looking at college has him working every hour he can!)

Now I dont have a big fancy shop full of the latest and greatest but my two lathes will be open if you guys feel the need to show someone else something etc. I have only the basic turning tools as well, so if you all have something to show might as well bring it. I have a slow speed sharpener so if you need to sharpen its here and if someone wants to show how by all means go for it. I will be eagerly watching and listening as well.

I would suggest warm clothes and boots, gloves etc. I will try my best to keep the shop warm enough which shouldnt be an issue. Bring your cameras....bring whatever you would like.

If everyone who is attending would pm me, I will get you my address and number. The GPS units will get you here but they usually tell you to turn here or there when there is no road...our corrners in this state are turns in others!

[Jon Lanier]

The family and I will be traveling near there during the Thanksgiving weekend going from Delaware to Ohio and back. If I can/could just simply stop by and pick up some pieces without much time consumption. I'd love to try. Let me know. And Thanks!

[Ken Hill]

That would be fine Jon, let me know what your looking for and i will try to have it cut and ready for you

[Mike Cruz]

David, I have a 20 foot flatbed...:D I've really got plenty of my own wood though. I wouldn't mind a choice piece or two for the nostalgia of it. But I, for one, won't be cleaning Ken out. I'll take some Persimmon if he has it and is willing to part with it, though. ;)

Ken, depending on my arm situtuation, I'd be happy to click away with a camera. I won't be doing any cutting, regardless of how well my arm is doing because, by the 20th, it WON'T be in "cutting" shape. I won't be able to turn for that matter either, but will eagerly watch anyone's demonstrations. Ken, do you have the Wolverine jig for sharpening? If you don't, I would highly recommend it. Makes sharpening a snap...especially bowl gouges.

For anyone showng up... Assume you are the best log cutter upper, the best turner, and the best sharpener of the group. Be prepared to help help teach others. You may not be, and someone else may be able to explain or teach an aspect of these processes better than you, but you never know... and you don't want to be in the "Man, I wish I had brought my X...I could have shown you how to Y" position. Let's all make the most out of this gathering. Getting some wood is great, but these meetings don't come that easily, and aren't that simple to organize. Thanks for hosting it, Ken!

I'll throw a PM your way.

[Ken Hill]

No worries Mike, take what you'd like.

[Rob Cunningham]

Baxter, Rob, Roger (and anyone else) will the 20th work for you guys, too?

I'm going to have to pass on this one. Too many things going on right now. Perhaps if my son decides to visit a college in that area, I'll be able stop in sometime. Hope you guys have a good time, I'll watch for the pictures.

[Mike Cruz]

Sorry to hear that you will not be joining us, Rob.

[Ken Hill]

Sorry you wont make it Rob

Here are some pics from today

Biggest Maple here....that thing was huge.

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2821/1084484054_iGXDe-L.jpg

Two bells, the far one is Maple and has some really nice grain
http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2822/1084484154_qN7YS-L.jpg

The crotch pile groweth

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2823/1084484238_SKyyH-L.jpg

Ive been busting my rump trying to keep the top of the ridge somewhat clear....the bottoms look like a bomb went off:(

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2824/1084484366_WLZcn-L.jpg

I cut open a few pieces they had at the loader and teh kids are getting ready to anchor seal them

http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/Private-Gallery-2/CMR2830/1084483868_BYdrw-L.jpg

Im POOPED!:D

[Baxter Smith]

As long as the creek don't rise and the bay bridge is there, I should make it.

[Ken Hill]

Glad to hear your coming Baxter!

Im going to pree cut some Maple limbs today and AS them so no time is wasted on the simple stuff. I left the crotches long so they will be fresh when we cut them back.

I will have a log set up with my 660 and Alaskan Mill to rip some slabs as well.

If anyone has any special "wants" please speak up and I will do my best to scour the woods for it and have it ready to process or ready to go. The same with dimensions...any particuliars would help me make sure yall's time isnt wasted and its easier for me to have things ready for your liking.

I have a tractor to load a trailer if someone wants a piece of log to mill etc.

[Dan Hintz]

Burls, spalts, yadda yadda yadda :D

[Mike Cruz]

Hmmmmm. You don't want peoples' time to be wasted.... Dan and Tony, bring the duct tape to cover my mouth!

[Ken Hill]

Only a week away!

A few bad things, I broke my bandsaw....and I tore tendons in my chest haha:( Im going to try and take it easy this week (no heavy lifting) so I can help everyone that needs it on saturday. The weather is looking good, going to be crisp but thats good for ya!

The wife is planning the food out so you wont go hungry, and she will keep coffee on hand etc. I will be picking yall's collective brains as to how to best lay out my workshop when you are here. i dont have anything fancy but would like to set it up in a manner that best suits what we do.

I am going to try and cut some blanks this week so that not all the time is spent with saws running, I have no doubt the conversations will sound better haha! (although im worse then Tim the Tool man Taylor when it comes to a strong running saw:rolleyes:)

I cant wait to meet yall, and see what you all have to share. I have 2 lathes so there shouldnt be a bottleneck to show someone something! I am also anticipating seeing what you guys turn from the wood you do take! If you have some bowl blanks ready to turn (cheap wood nothing fancy) maybe bring one along seeing I wont be able to prep them with the bandsaw. I did order a new 2hp dust collector thats due here that friday also I will do my best to get it running friday evening.

[Mike Cruz]

Ken sorry to hear about the bandsaw! How aweful! Who cares about your chest...:D Seriously, really sorry to hear about that, too. Rest up. We don't need TWO gimps on Saturday!

Hey, I might bring a walnut blank or two. Since I painted them with paint, not achor seal, they are starting to crack, so might as well do something with 'em before they go bad.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Ken, if you want to come over this week (or any other) or check out my shop and how I have it laid out, you are welcome. Hey, I'm supposed to be resting, and you could probably use a day of it, too. Got some chilly ones in the fridge...

[Ken Hill]

After hunting season is over I may take you up on that Mike!

I almost have a blank canvas to work with....my entire work area is 33x65 but I have it basically split in half. I havent set up things because I know there should be some method to the madness and when i started turning i did not fully understand the scope at which it sucks you in:D

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, in a 24x30 shop I have managed to squeeze in a Uni with 52" fence, 20" planer, 8" long bed jointer, 14" BS, 18" BS, Miter Saw with 12' to the left of the blade and 4' to the right, 16 1/2" drill press, 4 bag (two tower) DC, down draft table, grinder station, 12" disc/9" drum sander, 60 gallon air compressor, PM90 lathe, a 4x4 workbench, a 24" x12' long workbench, a 12'x6' finishing room, a 3' wide x 10' tall x 12' long wood storage area, and 4' x 8' plywood stand that sits flat and doubles as an assembly table. EVERYTHING is on mobile bases, but EVERYTHING has its own spot and I dont' NEED to move anything. The only reason they are all mobile is in case I HAVE to move them.

You have HOW much room?

[Ken Hill]

LOL, yeah but you dont have two kids thar race offorad...there are 6 atv's and 2 motorcycles that tend to take up space LOL!

I like the idea of mobile bases for alot of stuff. Id liek to have a nice rolling station for the lathes and just turn outside when its nice!

[Mike Cruz]

Okay, I lied. The lathe will NOT be on a mobile base. It will be stationary...maybe even bolted down.

As for the kids' atvs and such...isn't that what they make covers for? You can store an atv outside with a cover. You DON'T want to do that with your equipment!

Really though, 1/2 of your space is still a little bigger than what I have. That is why I'm saying that everything can fit, you just have to figure it out. Come by my shop. Go by ANYONE's shop that will let you. Get as many ideas as you can get before setting yours up. You'll get layout ideas, wiring ideas, insulation, heating/ac... No ONE shop is perfect for everyone, but you can steal ideas from everyone...just don't steal anything else from their shops! ;)

I hade the benefit of working in a shop for 5 years. And we went through a move and repositioning of tools. So, I kinda had a good idea of what I wanted and needed. I stole so many ideas from my old boss, that when he came in and saw my shop I think he had a couple good chuckles at the mimicry...of course we had something like 8,000 square feet there :eek: but...

[Ken Hill]

Outside storage isnt an option, we can have over $20k invested in one of their race bikes:eek: Not to mention I sometimes will have anywhere from 1 to 6 manufactures demo models here to photograph so room can come at a premium. The ability to quickly move things to the outer walls or to the middle would be highly advantagous! Atleast until the vortex catches me and I end up ordering a huge lathe and much more equipment haha!

Here is a link for you to view, its my oldest son clearing a 110 footer at our local practice track on his atv......That type of racing haha. His bikes are like our lathes except we build them and they cost way more LOL! He does have to work saturday but I am not sure what time, he was looking forward to meeting everyone and helping out.
http://kenhill.smugmug.com/Other/bpg920/DSC1976/657454133_DHL6F-L-1.jpg

Luckily we arent building them here as much anymore and with the economy in the tank the manufactures havent been sending out as many so I am taking back my shop a little at a time! I still have to keep the second part of the shop open to powder coating work so space is always at a premium. I think a simply layout will work best I hope haha!

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, I understand your pride and all, but isn't the picture proof enough? Did you really have to print it all the way across the pic? :D

[Ken Hill]

Haha, I am sorry, I released the watermark but I geuss it hadnt cleared on that image:D

We now have a large river sycamore to cut off of, the one in front of the house decided to tick off my 660 and the 660 won:eek: The wife wanted it down after sweeping leaves for the last time and it was getting too big to be that close to the house

[Roger Chandler]

Hi Guys,

I am going to be prevented :( from coming to the gathering at Ken's place.......and I was looking forward to meeting everyone and having a great day of fellowship.

My mother in law who is 81 and lives with us has been having chest pains for a couple of weeks or so, and has some other issues as well. She had a stress test last week, and now on Friday the 19th [it was scheduled for Wednesday, but they changed it yesterday] she has to undergo a cardiac cath. and maybe some type of intervention [stint, etc] which will mean that my time and my support of my wife must be here.

I am truly sorry that I cannot be part of this gathering..........maybe if it happens again I can. I just wanted to give Ken a heads up so his wife would not be planning on me and preparing refreshments she did not have to on my account.

I hope all you guys have a great time! Blessings to you all!

[Mike Cruz]

Ken, I look forward to seeing some of that Sycamore!

Roger, sorry to hear you won't be joining us, and even sorrier to hear about your home situation. Best of luck to your family.

[Ken Hill]

Sorry to hear that Roger, when you get some free time just holler and my door and woods is always open!

[Roger Chandler]

Sorry to hear that Roger, when you get some free time just holler and my door and woods is always open!


Thanks so much, Ken! :)

[Ken Hill]

Saturday is coming up fast!

The loggers last day (for 2 weeks) will be tomorrow. They should haul out what they have cut (just left with a load) so I am hoping that area is open for use to use to load the big stuff if anyone wants to haul some stuff out in big pieces.

Its muddy but the wind will have it usable by saturday, its been drying all day and is flat so no getting stuck if yall have city trucks LOL! I will get you out if needed, but will take pics first haha!:p Its not bad...im just yanking yer chain!

The dust collector arrived today so I will get it going. I also stacked up spme butt ends and large cut off's so you can get blanks easily...I cut a few today and even turned a few bowls already!

Any last minute questions/suggestions just hollar!

[Mike Cruz]

Looks like we'll have a full vehicle coming from this direction...4 of us! Can't wait...:D

[Dan Hintz]

Yeah, until I got the latest PM, I thought I was driving to Mike's where we would meet up with a couple of others, then go from there... looks like I'm getting chauffeured to Mike's :D

[Dale Bright]

Guys,

I just found out that I will not be able to be there on Saturday. I have a very important family matter that I can not put off. I was really looking forward to meeting a bunch of Creekers and playing with wood, maybe next time.

Ken, thanks so much for putting this together.

Dale Bright

[Mike Cruz]

So, that makes Baxter, Dan, Peter, and myself. Tony, you gonna be there? Anyone else? Other than Ken...

[Mike Cruz]

Sorry that you won't be coming Dale. Maybe we can meet another time...you are just over the bridge from me...

[Ken Hill]

Dale, same offer, anytime you need to dive into a woodpile it will be here!