Upon completing his cabinetmaking apprenticeship my great-grandfather sailed to America in 1867. Here he taught and worked with his son, my grandfather. I see the results of their partnership in the ornate wood interiors of many churches and public buildings in my home town, Danville, Illinois.
150 years later I continue the tradition in fine hardwood toys. My apprenticeship began in my father's basement workshop and ended with a degree in Forest Science and Design at the University of Illinois. But, it was really the following years in my Danville storefront workshop that taught me how to make durable wonderful toys and after moving to Madison in 1982 I am still learning every day. I build each toy with care, using Wisconsin hardwoods. These woods are durable, beautiful and timeless. I want my toys to furnish an alternative to some of the throw-away aspects of life today.
John Michael Linck . maker of fine wooden toys |
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