"In early America, every sound had a living, willful force at its source. Sometimes these forces were not human or even visible. In this fascinating and highly original work of cultural history, Richard Cullen Rath re-creates in rich detail a world remote from our own, one in which sounds were charged with meaning and power." -- back cover.

Describes and illustrates the work of craftsmen and artisans in Colonial America. Shows types of work done in town shops and manufacturies, as well as, in homes, village shops, and country forges.