EUREKA, Calif. — It’s not that Eric Hollenbeck doesn’t believe in using modern equipment. It’s just he believes you should learn how to use old school equipment first.
“If you can, learn the basics then jump into technology as far as you can take it,” said Hollenbeck, founder of Blue Ox Millworks.
You may recognize him from the TV show “The Craftsman” on Magnolia Network. Hollenbeck is one of the most respected woodworkers in America because of his keen knowledge of pre-20th century craftsmanship.
“You only show up at Blue Ox when nobody else can do it,” he said.
He’s worked on some the most historic buildings in the United States including some in Martha’s Vineyard, as well as Emily Dickinson’s house. It's the work doing upkeep on the Victorian-style buildings in his hometown of Eureka that's near and dear to his heart, though.
“Like the Eagle House and the Carson Mansion, we do all the restoration on the Carson Mansion,” said Hollenbeck.
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Hollenbeck got his start fixing rotten or weathered pieces on historic homes and business. The historic Carson Mansion is the most recognizable building Eric has worked on but there are many more restoration projects in town.
“Eureka is a really unique town. We have 68% of our original structures still standing,” said Hollenbeck.
On top of restoring America’s historic buildings, Eric is taking the next generation of woodworkers under his wing. Every year he teaches a group of teens his craft. The program was featured in a short documentary.
If you want to experience some of the restoration being done at Blue Ox Millworks, you can take one of the daily tours through the shop. You might just learn something about the past that will help you with the future.
“Once you understand the roots of it, then take it and run with it. Take it as far as you want," he said.
Blue Ox Millworks in Eureka is open for tours every week. Book a tour on their website.
MORE OLD SCHOOL GEMS ON THE BACKROAD: See one of California's last steam-powered sawmills in action.
