Forestry - Elaine Warfield Photography

The Fenwick Lumber company in the Northern Catskills. Edgewood, Almost Forgotten. 1906-1917.

Early in the 1900s, there was a change occurring in the town of Hunter. Actually, a revolutionary change, way up on the Southwest (back side) of Hunter Mountain. No one alive today seems to know exactly why, but two enterprising brothers from Steuben County, New York found their way to the Catskills and began purchasing land and timber rights up on that lofty mountain. Deeds show that the Slawson brothers, Alfred and John, in 1903 bought approximately 2,000 acres from Hiram and Anna Whitney, land in the town of Lexington, at about three dollars an acre.<br>There were other acquisitions, including rights-of-way, timber rights and a mill site on the "old Harrison Benjamin lot" in the town of Hunter near Edgewood. It might have been a wonderful money opportunity to log that side of the mountain for the brothers, but unfortunately, their idea for bringing the logs down the steep grade (approximately 28%), via a log chute, did not work out well. The logs gained such momentum that upon reaching the bottom of the chute, everything was torn apart.<br>In 1906, the Slawsons sold their operation to the Tennant-Richards Lumber Company, who in turn sold it to the Fenwick Lumber Company.

Every Logger Has a Story: Men and Women of the Wood and Logging Industry

Every Logger Has a Story: Men and Women of the Wood and Logging Industry weaves together over 40 interviews and stories provided by men and women who’ve dedicated their lives to the wood and logging industry. This compilation offers an exciting glimpse at a business many know little about. Whether from a large company or a one-man operation, still actively logging and/or retired, these accounts capture fascinating, personal narratives before they are lost to time.<br><br>Gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies and skills involved in this dangerous trade and experience, as told first-hand, the risks, rewards, and sometimes failures of those who labor among the trees. Everyone has a story to share, whether they came into the industry because of family influence and history or were lured by the siren song of freedom, nature, and self-employment. Each of their stories are unique.<br><br>The dedication and expertise of the people who contributed their tales and images to this book are unrivalled. Every Logger has a Story will provide readers with a glimpse into the various operations that is sure to intrigue, educate, and entertain. 170+ images. Price includes shipping to U.S. only.