Background

Recorded over a four-year period at Thomas Trevis Smith, a Black Country dry cooper that had diversified into garden furniture and shrub tubs, whilst still retaining the traditional coopering skills.

Shows the rearing of barrels, other hand made products and old Ransomes barrel making machinery in action. Alan Trevis-Smith also demonstrates a modern automatic stave cutting machine introduced to the works in 1987.

In 1988 an unusual order for 100lb gunpowder barrels made to original specifications, with wooden and copper hoops, put their expertise to the test.

Sadly since this recording was made the firm has closed.

Also includes
Views of the abandoned cooperage of John Seedhouse & Sons at Princess End, Tipton, recorded in 1986 before destruction.

Details

• This compilation has no commentary.
• NGR: SO 943 858, SO 955 938
• £ 14.40 - DVD
• Total running time: 100 mins.
• Recorded 1984-1988
• Price includes worldwide delivery.
• 'PAL' and 'NTSC' versions available.

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