That describes exactly a fishing site I used to really like. Went the same way sadly.Originally Posted by William Hodge
Woodworking forums like this one are a throwback to an older internet. People have moved on to looser and more transitory venues. Photos of accomplishments seem to be a more common way to communicate. Help with figuring out stuff comes from searching you tube videos. Pre-internet, experts with reputations were sought out for passing on knowledge. Tage Frid, Fine Wooodworking, classes from people good at teaching, word of mouth. It was important to establish relationships with people with more experience. Forums were great, everyone had a microphone.
I have learned so much over the years reading forums. No more going to see some old guy that knew a lot. For example, I was able to build a 20 hp phase converter, insulate my building, move and hoist equipment, buy lumber, buy machinery and tooling, and do all kinds of dust collection with knowledge learned in forums.
However, the other side of the coin is the previously mentioned forum. It used to be somewhat interesting as a woodworking knowledge source. However, there was this basement where people would park their manners at the door, and let fly with the most vile racist lies and attacks. It became a safe zone for smug sharing of grievance. I felt their pain, so many men with their panties in a twist, I don't know how they could sit at a computer and type.
It was fun for a while to check in and join one side or the other in political arguments. However, after a while the ones who shouted longest and loudest were the only ones left., a mirror of public discourse.
I hope that Sawmill Creek can continue to be a place where people can respect each other as people by not allowing lies and hatred.
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