what is
New at Harley The ancient craft
The project was made possible through a gift from the Sands-Stern Family Foundation designated for beautifying the School’s Clover Street landscaping. Melissa McGrain-Stern shepherded the project, spending countless hours in the concept, design, and construction of the wall. A dedication ceremony is planned for the fall.
of dry stone walling was used to construct a remarkable stone wall at The Harley School. Master stonewallers worked carefully and diligently for several months to create a wall that is both functional and a work of art.
Dry stone walling is the art of placing stone in such a way that gravity and friction hold the rock together. In the tradition of the craft, no cement or mortar is used in the process, but stones are shaped to fit together as a puzzle. Master stonewaller Chuck Eblacker, of Eblacker and Stone in Rochester, shared his expertise with Harley students while he constructed the wall. He also invited visiting stonewallers from around the world to join in and teach Harley students. Eblacker is a member of the prestigious Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain.
It was the desire of the donor families to engage the entire Harley community in the project. Students had the opportunity to be involved through an Upper School elective course, The Stone Wall. With the guidance of Tim Rogers, art teacher, and Chris Hartman ‘93, environmental sustainability coordinator, students learned this unique craft, which blended apprenticeship and the intellectual exploration of the history, art, politics and construction of stone walls. Students worked side by side with Eblacker and visiting stone wallers, attended lectures, and took local field trips to see other dry stone walls. At 42 inches in height, the completed wall creates a safeguard from the road and symbolically embraces the campus. Nestled nearby is a circular gathering space, In the Round,” designed for students to use in their free time and where classes may be held.
Handcrafted Stone Wall Brings New Experience and Beauty to Campus
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