"An Architectural Gem in Natural Stone:"

Before America's Great Depression and during the heyday of Lawrence County's limestone industry, Harry Easton's limestone production studio completed the largest carving project cut by Bedford craftsmen--the enormous exterior columns for the National Archives building in Washington, D.C. Easton's grandson, Bob Easton created an exhibit of historic photograph documenting the people and the work that made these beautiful Corinthian columns a reality.

To view Easton' interview with Marla Jones as they discuss the Bedford and Lawrence County Limestone Industry, go to: http://vimeo.com/71598799

Prior to the use of the air hammer, stone carving tools suck as these are typical of those owned by Bedford sculptors. The Elmwood mallet has a short handle so it can deliver considerable force with great control. To this day, much of the finishing is done with hand tools.

Born in 1884 in Massachusetts, Harry Easton came to Bedford in 1908 and worked as a sculptor for John Rowe. By age 50, Easton had his name on more projects as a sculptor, modeler or contractor than most anyone else. Easton Studios was awarded the carving contract for the decorative work on the Archives Building (Washington, D.C.) --its Corinthian capitals, pediments, decorative friezes, and eagles perched at roof's edge.

The process of carving the capitals.

"Limestone carving"

An exhibit in the gallery honored historic sculptors Frank Arena, Charles Morton Dodd, August Mack and Tom Watson as well as contemporary sculptor, Terry Kirkman.