Timber-Framed Trestle Pony Party

This isn’t a class – it’s more of a daylong ‘event!’ Actually, TWO daylong events (you can register for one or both). You’ll join us as we turn trees into trestles. Registered participants will get hands-on time and instruction with lots of tools. People who don’t want to register are welcome to come down and watch!

What is a ‘trestle pony’? It’s sort of like a sawhorse, but a bit smaller. But when it’s a timber-framed trestle pony, it’s quite stout! Here’s an example:

When you register, you’ll work with local carpenter John Finkle to hand-hew timbers from a pair of spruce trees in a pocket park in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, to create timber-frame trestles!

These old spruce trees have just about reached the end of their life, and the city is bringing them down. We’ll be rescuing them from the chipper to create trestle ponies.

These are the spruce trees that are coming down.

You’ll have the opportunity to observe, learn, work with an ax, an adze, a plane, and a chisel!

By the time class is over, you will have participated in all aspects of creating a timber-framed trestle pony. You won’t be creating a pony to bring home for yourself

Registration Includes

Register for one or both days, which includes participation, gentle instruction, and tools will all be provided. You are welcome to bring your own tools, if you’d prefer to use them.

Skill Level

No prior experience needed!

Best for Ages…

18 and older.

You should bring…

Work gloves, sturdy shoes/boots, eye protection, hearing protection, etc. We’ll be working outside, so dress for the weather. Bring a bag lunch.