Historic Woodworks

Owner Josh Weltman inspects the unique characteristics of a piece of salvaged antique lumber. "Speak to me your stories of old," he says. His mission is to keep these stories alive and allow their rich tradition to continue.


My name is Josh Weltman and Historic Woodworks is the culmination of my lifetime passions for barns and woodworking. I have been active in the pursuit of both for as long as I can remember. Throughout childhood I was always marveling at the barns which were scattered across the countryside of America. My interest in woodworking was always prevalent as I pursued training from grade school through college. I graduated from Hampshire College with a degree in American Studies. In addition to woodworking, I gathered skills in photography, literature and creative writing in order to record and express my ever growing knowledge of the vernacular architecture of the United States. For my thesis I performed extensive historic research on the famous homestead area Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park where the most photographed barns in the world exist. After college I moved west and eventually settled in Teton Valley, Idaho. For over a decade I have consistently worked professionally as a woodworker. I've have also recorded extensive oral histories and published numerous articles on the local history of Teton Valley, Idaho and the region. Please contact me if you are interested in any of these articles or interviews.

As a woodworker and someone who is concerned about the health of our planet I have always looked at the lumber market with disdain. Using reclaimed lumber is the only conscientious way I can make my living as a woodworker. About four years ago I started salvaging lumber and dismantling structures myself. I bought an old 6500 square foot commercial warehouse in downtown Tetonia, Idaho. If you are ever in the area please stop in and tour our facility. Also check out my other business at www.peakrigs.com. When I'm not woodworking during our long Idaho winters I'm out skiing! Thanks for looking and please send me your thoughts.

--Josh Weltman.

P.O. Box 1062 | Driggs, ID 83422 | 208.709.7428
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