TRR photo by David Hulse Woodcarver Ed Schmidt plies his craft on the library totem. (Click for larger image)

Library totem ready by Labor Day

By DAVID HULSE

ELDRED — Faced with removing a tall conifer that had long graced the Sunshine Hall Library’s front, the Friends of the Library decided instead to remodel it… into a symbolic totem.

“Totems protect all they survey,” said woodcarver Ed Schmidt, as he whittled down the venerable softwood on August 22. “And they carry messages to the spirits in the sky,” the Jeffersonville craftsman laid it on as he peeled it off.

Friends President Terry Gross said the decorative totem idea was sparked by the success of earlier improvements to the front of the building. Maureen Weber Hochhauser had installed a garden at the front of the Sunshine Hall Library, in memory of her parents. “People have been coming by already and marveling at Ed’s work,” she added.

Schmidt said the totem would include the namesake Sun, two children symbolizing hope for the future, a book, which would also provide space for plaques on its surface, all supported by a very familiar looking owl, “symbolic of wisdom, not potato chips,” Schmidt added.

The finished carving is to be painted in water-based paints, sealed with boiled linseed oil.

How long will it last? Schmidt said he found the stump generally sound and would use mineral sprits to discourage any insect residents and “upgrade the infrastructure, so to speak.”

He expected the work would be finished by Labor Day, and preferred not to reveal the reduced price he’s charging the small non-profit. “Let’s just say it’s invaluable.”

To learn more about Schmidt’s work visit www.edschmidtwoodcarver.com.