Getting more tools can often be an “arm’s race” for people who are into building and fixing things. Maybe the latest Milwaukee battery operated framing nailer or some fancy screwdriver has gotten my attention with the idea and promise to help make the job a little easier or faster. These new tools that are so bright and shiny are great, but they don’t necessarily capture my imagination like the tools that have been in my toolbox the longest.
I started thinking about this post the other day as I was getting ready for a basement finishing project and gathering everything I needed. When I went to the toolbox, I rounded up the usual suspects; hammers, saws, drills, and impact drivers. All the modern tools that I’ve gained in the last few years for some specific purpose or job went into the box to go to the jobsite. When I reached for my framing square and plumb bob though, I took a minute and thought about where they came from and how they’ve helped get me to this point in my life.
Now, you might not even know what a framing square or plumb bob are or what they do. That detail really isn’t important to this story, but since you might be wondering, they’re fundamental tools that are needed when framing and building a structure. Google and YouTube can help with the details if you’d like to know more or see how they’re used.
The reason these tools matter to me though is the connection they have to my family, literally crossing time and generations.
See, these basic chunks of steel were owned by my Great Grandfather and used in his projects. He was born in 1890s in Alexandria, Kentucky, which would mean these specific tools are maybe around 110 years old. They were then passed down to my Grandfather, Father, and now they help me construct the projects I build for you.
I wonder sometimes what my family built using these tools and what they will build in the future when I pass them along to my daughter. They’ve without a doubt helped to fabricate and build many structures over their lifetimes. But they’ve also helped build me into the person I am today. Without my family’s interest in building and fixing things being passed down through the generations, it is hard to say where my interests would be.
For me though, I am happy to do the things I do every day and grateful for all the lessons I have learned from my family, these tools, and the many others that occupy my toolbox. I get great satisfaction out of helping others build and realize their dreams.
The added connections of 4 generations and over 100 years are just the icing on the cake.
Comments