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About New Leaf Historical Woodwork: |
The New Leaf Concept…….This project began to accomplish several things. First, to preserve the heritage of the people of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, our people.
Then, to sustainably use a reclaimed raw material that had recently lost the need for its original purpose, tobacco barns.
Also, to produce quality, hand-crafted wood products by local artisans.
Finally, to create jobs in Madison County, NC where over 2000 displaced tobacco farmers need work
In order for a barn to be selected for a New Leaf project, it must meet certain criteria. It must be located along the Appalachian Mountains chain, have been used to cure tobacco, and have a story to tell.
A photograph is taken of the barn before it is disassembled. Each offering has certified documents bearing a watermark of the barn that the piece was constructed from.
The wood is carefully transported to our mill where limited numbers of furniture and art are built depending on the size and quality of wood in each barn.
The story that is told for each barn is gathered by family archives and oral recollections of property owners and neighbors. This usually consists of a hearty chat with the older and wiser at the kitchen table or on the porch while overlooking the mountains.
The knife and spear symbol is the authenticating mark of New Leaf Historical Woodwork LLC. It is derived from a pencil drawing of the tools used to cut burley tobacco at harvest time. The artist is Linda Knox of Madison County, NC.
Look for the knife and spear in the bottom right corner of the certificate of authenticity and branded somewhere on each piece of work.
If you don’t find it you can be sure it’s not a New Leaf piece, but a copycat.
Quality and uniqueness are top priorities.
New Leaf Historical Woodwork pieces are hand-crafted in Western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee by Appalachian artisans.
All hardware, including the ornamental leaf on every piece, is hand-hammered by a professional blacksmith.
My friend, you have one-of-a-kind. You won't find another one like it anywhere else in the world.
Being a part of history is a great feeling, but you can feel even better about the future with your purchase of this "green" product.
Our wood materials are carefully reclaimed and recycled.
New Leaf Historical Woodwork LLC supports local conservancy efforts.
