The Craftsman

Overview
Master woodworker Eric Hollenbeck breathes new life into historic homes and overlooked treasures in Eureka, California. With his exceptional craftsmanship, he embarks on restoration projects that honor the past while revitalizing the charm of these structures. Each episode showcases his dedication to preserving history through skillful woodworking and a passion for craftsmanship, as he transforms forgotten relics into stunning pieces that tell a story. Hollenbeck's expertise and vision highlight the artistry of restoration, blending creativity with a deep respect for the heritage of his community.
Episodes
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1

Creating the Craftsman
Eric's path from high school dropout to skilled woodworker has unfolded over more than forty years. Now, a project from his past reemerges, presenting...
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2

Working With Trees
Eric reflects on the importance of the relationships he has with the materials he utilizes for his work, showing reverence for the trees that are harv...
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3

Preserving History
Eric takes on the task of refurbishing a window and a call box at the iconic Carson Mansion.
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4

Building Community
Eric teams up with a local contractor to ensure that the heritage of the Monroe House is maintained.
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5

Keeping Memories Alive
Eric decides to tackle the challenges at the Eureka movie theater while also handling a couple of milking stools.
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6

Finding Yourself
Eric takes on a footstool while also navigating the elaborate windows of Eureka's bank.
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7

Importance of Relics
Eric focuses on crafting a finial for a grand mansion, emphasizing the importance of creating structures that endure over time.
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8

Craftsman's Tenacity
As Eric presses on with the restoration of the Monroe House, he unexpectedly crosses paths with a descendant of the family who once lived there.
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9

Teaching a Trade
Eric demonstrates the process of creating paint and guides everyone through the steps of constructing and putting together barge boards.
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1

Sparking Curiosity
Eric and Viv come to the conclusion that they need to give the front of the mill a fresh new look.
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2

Sustainability
Eric seeks out ancient redwood timber to restore Victorian-style decorative elements.
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3

Science, Art and Inspiration
While constructing doors for a historic theater, Eric shares some of his poetry.
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4

The Carson Mansion
As Eric constructs pilasters, corbels, and a balustrade for the addition to the Carson mansion, he delves into the history of Eureka, California, expl...
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5

An Honest Day’s Work
Eric lends a hand to a nearby farmer in fixing up a century-old cider press.
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6

Traditions
Eric crafts a corbel and a gable employing age-old methods.
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7

Healing PTSD
Eric accepts a position to fix a church bell, using the opportunity to open up about his struggles with PTSD. As he works on the bell, he finds a sens...
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8

Building a Truss
Eric constructs an impressive structural truss for a community nonprofit organization.