Montana Craftsman Paul Van Marter Reclaims Century-Old Hinsdale Grain Elevator Lumber for New Uses
Paul Van Marter, a Montana craftsman, is meticulously dismantling a century-old grain elevator in Hinsdale, Montana, board by board. Instead of demolition, Van Marter is reclaiming the lumber and other materials to give them a second life. He uses the reclaimed wood for various purposes, including wainscoting, trim, flooring, cabinets, fencing, and hog pens. The process is labor-intensive and time-consuming, often taking two to three years to completely dismantle an elevator, remove nails, and prepare the lumber. Van Marter relocates to the town where the elevator is located and primarily works alone, occasionally hiring assistance. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that much of the reclaimed material remains local, contributing to the community's homes and structures. This project in Hinsdale is one of ten grain elevators Van Marter has dismantled, with previous projects spanning Oregon, Washington, and several Montana communities.
