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The Tools that Built America (Dover Books on Americana)

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Arrives Friday, Jun 26
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Description

A book that will delight crafters at all levels of expertise, The Tools That Built America is a must-read for lovers of antique tools, Americana enthusiasts, and anyone sufficiently inspired by the revival of wood-crafting to build their own furniture or shelter. Handsome in appearance, simple in construction, and remarkably efficient, early American tools were true marvels of ingenuity. In this richly illustrated book, author and master craftsman Alex Bealer tells the fascinating story of early American woodworking, enthusiastically describing and clearly depicting a wide array of devices — from axes wielded by frontiersmen to clear the land and build log cabins to carpenters' saws, planes, and hammers, and furniture makers' chisels, calipers, bevels, and lathes. More than 300 drawings and photographs illustrate implements as they were once used in colonial times and are still employed today by many woodworkers. Crafting Heritage: Explore the rich history of American woodworking tools used to create everything, from simple shelters, frontier log cabins, wagons, and fences to exquisite colonial furniture. Hands-On Inspiration: Perfect for crafters, this book is inspiring for do-it-yourselfers and professional woodworkers. Illustrated Journey: More than 300 drawings and photographs reveal the evolution of woodworking tools in exquisite detail, showcasing their historical significance and practical applications. Master Craftsmanship: Master craftsman Alex Bealer embodies a passion for the ingenuity and craftsmanship of bygone eras as he details the functionality of early American tools. Cultural and Practical Insight: Delve into the stories behind the axes, saws, planes, and hammers that built America, gaining cultural insights and practical knowledge to enhance your woodworking skills. Tool Revival: Perfect for crafters, history buffs, and Americana enthusiasts, this tribute to the simplicity, beauty, and effectiveness of early American tools invites a new generation of crafters to appreciate and utilize traditional woodworking techniques in modern projects. The Tools That Built America is a treasure trove for antique tool enthusiasts, a delight for Americana lovers, and a source of inspiration for those drawn to the resurgence of wood-crafting. Read more

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Dover Publications


Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 18, 2004


Edition ‏ : ‎ Illustrated


Language ‏ : ‎ English


Print length ‏ : ‎ 224 pages


ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0486437531


ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 38


Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 12.8 ounces


Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.08 x 0.57 x 8.9 inches


Best Sellers Rank: #791,257 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #116 in Hand Tools (Books) #208 in Americana Antiques & Collectibles #929 in Woodworking Projects (Books)


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If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Friday, Jun 26

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Top Amazon Reviews


  • great experience
Format: Hardcover
Just as advertised, prompt shipping. Received it three days before the expected delivery date. Everything well done.
Reviewed in the United States on June 19, 2025 by Craig S Finley

  • Fantastic book
Format: Paperback
I understand much better now how the pioneers and other could make the fantastic log cabins with the tools they made themselves in many cases. Fascinating! I actually purchase some of these old tools in many case I did not even know they exist and I am experimenting with them.
Reviewed in the United States on October 23, 2023 by Roberto

  • Interesting book - friend loved it
Format: Paperback
Bought as a gift for a friend who is into woodworking, he really liked it.
Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2023 by MM

  • If you love handtools, you'll love this book.
Format: Paperback
The book gave me greater appreciation of pioneer craftsmen and the tools they used.When you realize the limitations of materials and power, it's amazing that we have some many examples of expert craftsmanship that have survived to the present.
Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2013 by J. Lewis

  • An interesting read
Format: Kindle
I rather liked this book, as I have always liked woodworking. I use many of the tools described therein, but I must confess that I do like power tools as well!. Nonetheless, I quite happily endorse this book.
Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2021 by Wilma Deering

  • Great Resourse.
As a metal detector, this book is necessary for identifying when an axe was made, how it was used, and how it was made.
Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2020 by Sally

  • historical critical basics
Format: Paperback
this book is the bee's knees. it gives a terrific overview of the history of hand tools and their progression plus dated timeline of when they appeared and disappeared. In very clear writing, it tells in detail on the use and purpose of the tool. it helped me a lot in my level of understanding.
Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2010 by W. M. Nielson

  • used
Format: Hardcover
I didn't see anything in the description to indicate that the book was used. The spine is partially broken. It has a name and adress sticker inside.
Reviewed in the United States on December 13, 2024 by Tricia Sembroski

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