Biography
Roy Underhill is a master woodworker and host of "The Woodwright's Shop" on PBS, the longest-running how-to show in television history. He uses only hand tools and traditional methods.
Early Start
Underhill studied history and became fascinated with traditional crafts. He became master housewright at Colonial Williamsburg before starting his TV show.
Challenges Overcome
Underhill champions hand tools in an age of power tools. He has kept traditional woodworking alive through education and demonstration.
Key Achievements
- Host of "The Woodwright's Shop" for 40+ years
- Master Housewright at Colonial Williamsburg
- Author of numerous books on traditional woodworking
- Founded The Woodwright's School
- Preserved traditional woodworking techniques
Why They Inspire Us
Underhill shows that traditional skills have enduring value. His joy in hand work and teaching inspire craftspeople to slow down and master fundamentals.
"The hand tool is an extension of the hand, which is an extension of the mind."