Across the Fence: Tools of the Trade

My grandpas, both Nolting and Zeek, and my dad were farmers, ranchers, horsemen and ‘Jacks of all trades.’ Out of necessity they were carpenters, plumbers, electricians, auto and tractor mechanics, welders, veterinarians and whatever else was needed at the time. This was nothing new for men of their era and nothing new for many rural folks today.

I helped build my first barn before I ever went to school. Although my responsibilities were menial and included fetching tools, bringing nails and holding down boards on the sawhorses, I was a part of the crew and I watched and I learned. Sinc...