Travel Blog

It is clear that when traveling through Southeastern Kentucky, there’s one very important piece of gear that is a necessity: A large cargo space.

There are so many incredible pieces of fine hand-crafted furniture, such a diverse array of folk art and fine art, that it’s impossible not to lust after something from just about every artist you meet.

Cases in point:

Brian Boggs, chair maker. Boggs makes his chairs right in his downtown
Berea workshop, which includes a showroom and viewing area to watch him at work.  Sit in his rocker, and you will find yourself not wanting to leave. Below is an example of his hand crafted ladder back rocker in cherry:

 Also had the chance to visit with the amazing and engaging Don Weber, a Welshman who now calls Paint Lick, KY home. He is a bodger (someone who works with wood on a spring pole lathe – in other words, with no electricity) and blacksmith as well as a master craftsman, and his scones are pretty darn good, too.

Spent some time with Mike Angel, another chair maker -- and let's just point out right here all these men make more than just chairs -- they make tables and benches and beds and just about anything you can dream up.

Angel is making one of his signature hickory rockers for Presidet Bush, and I had the chance to sit in the chair before the Bush tush, so to speak, will occupy it!