This compilation of engrossing facts and anecdotes, illustrated with the author's own pen, captures the living legacy of America as seen in "the things that were." The author lovingly describes the careers of dowsers, tithingmen, sawyers, nailers, plumbum-men (plumbers), barber-surgeons, sellmongers, fence-viewers, and other old-time artisans and craftworkers. 96 black-and-white illustrations.
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
A Museum of Early American Tools by Eric Sloane Describes scores of tools and the wooden and metal artifacts made with them. Covers farm and kitchen implements, as well as the tools of curriers, blacksmiths, and other craftsmen. 184 black-and-white illustrations.
American Barns and Covered Bridges by Eric Sloane Lovingly written book, accompanied by the author's own sketches, depicts Maine-styled barns attached to houses, an "open" log barn in Virginia, a 2,088-foot covered bridge at Clark's Ferry, Pennsylvania, and a host of other structures.
Eric Sloane's America: Paintings in Oil by Michael Wigley, Mimi Sloane Eric Sloane's evocative oils of America's landscape and material culture shimmer with immense historical and nostalgic appeal. This original hardcover collection gathers nearly a hundred of his finest paintings, with subjects ranging from New England to the American Southwest.
A Celebration of Bells by Eric Sloane, Eric Hatch Spirited reminders of yesteryear, clamoring bells in all their forms ring of America and freedom. In this charmingly illustrated book, two nostalgia experts share their enthusiasm for the subject, covering types, sounds, and world-famous bells.
Diary of an Early American Boy: 1805 by Eric Sloane A noted historian complements an authentic 19th-century journal of New England farm life with an explanatory narrative and 72 delightful drawings. This deluxe hardcover edition is a keepsake treasure.
Do's and Don'ts of Yesteryear: A Treasury of Early American Folk Wisdom by Eric Sloane Combining two of Mr. Americana's popular little etiquette guides, this hardcover collection offers cozy, homespun advice that recalls a less hectic time. Covers proper behavior for "At the Table," "In Dress and Habits," and more.
The Little Red Schoolhouse by Eric Sloane Harkening back to a time when the three Rs stood for reading, 'riting, and religion, Sloane's sketchbook explores the history of early American schools. Includes marvelous illustrations of one-room New England schoolhouses, desks, and benches.
Recollections in Black and White by Eric Sloane Nostalgic treasury of 74 early pen-and-ink sketches of snow-covered landscapes, sturdy stone barns and farmhouses, covered bridges, farming implements, spring houses, and more; plus autobiographical commentary on roads traveled and sights seen.
Once Upon a Time: The Way America Was by Eric Sloane Nostalgic text and drawings brim with gentle philosophies and descriptions of how we used to live — self-sufficiently — on the land, in homes, and among the things built by hand. 44 line illustrations.
The Seasons of America Past by Eric Sloane Seventy-five illustrations depict cider mills and presses, sleds, pumps, stump-pulling equipment, plows, and other elements of America's rural heritage. A section of old recipes and household hints adds additional color.
Diary of an Early American Boy: Noah Blake 1805 by Eric Sloane This 19th-century diary offers a fascinating rarity: an authentic journal, plus 72 drawings and an explanatory narrative. "Extraordinary . . . will delight readers of all ages." — History in Review.
Our Vanishing Landscape by Eric Sloane Charming anecdotes about a bygone era describe networks of canals, corduroy roads, and turnpikes; waterwheels and icehouses; colorful road signs and their painters; circus folk; and more. 81 black-and-white illustrations.
Look at the Sky and Tell the Weather by Eric Sloane Delightful blend of serious meteorology and beautiful illustrations takes readers on a voyage of discovery — from the Canadian Rockies to northern New England. 43 black-and-white illustrations.
A Reverence for Wood by Eric Sloane Delightfully illustrated book remarks expansively on the resourcefulness of early Americans in their use of wood — from making furniture, tools, and buildings to such by-products as charcoal.