Refreshingly written, delightfully illustrated book remarks expansively on the resourcefulness of early Americans in their use of this valuable commodity — from the crafting of furniture, tools, and buildings to the use of such by-products as charcoal and medicine. "One of Sloane's best books." — Library Journal. 69 black-and-white illustrations. Unabridged republication of the original edition published by Funk & Wagnalls, New York, 1965.
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.
American Yesterday by Eric Sloane Immensely enjoyable book lovingly describes 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.
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.
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.
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.