In July of 2009 the Preservation Trades Network held its first Preservation Rendezvous in Frankfort Kentucky. The event was focused around two workshops which took place at Cove Spring Park where the Timber Framers Guild partnered with PTN to teach traditional timber frame techniques in the construction of a picnic shelter while PTN Board member Jim Houston and Executive Director Rudy Christian taught students how to document and deconstruct a c.1825 log structure which was used for curing meat when the park was the site of a historic farming operation.

This year PTN will be returning to Cove Spring to begin the process of authentically restoring and reconstructing the log meat house. The workshop, which begins on October 13th, one week before IPTW 2010 and runs through Wednesday October 20th, will again be lead by Jim Houston and Rudy Christian plus two other log restoration specialists and will focus on teaching hewing and log notching, laying out and cutting step lapped rafter seats plus repair techniques for damaged wall logs. We will also have a portable sawmill on site to fabricate new rafter and roof sheathing boards which will be installed when the restacked walls are completed.

Attendees will have the option of free rustic camping at Cove Spring or taking advantage of discounted hotel room rates at the Capitol Plaza Hotel or any number of local hotels and bed and breakfasts. A camp kitchen will be set up for those who want to join in on community lunches and historic downtown Frankfort is only minutes away for evening meals and entertainment. Registration is limited and discounted registration rates are available to PTN members.

Don’t miss your chance to learn new kills or hone the ones you already have while being a part of saving an important part of historic Frankfort’s past.