Timberframe Raising on the Greenway

NBSS partnered with the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy for a fun-filled Timberframe Raising event on Friday, June 30. This unique collaboration aims to promote the art of woodworking, showcase adult classes offered by North Bennet Street School, and offer engaging programming for young kids and families.

The event took place at The Greenway, a vibrant public park located in the heart of Boston, which is just a half block from the School. As part of this occasion, students from NBSS constructed and raised an eight-foot-tall timberframe structure, providing an exceptional opportunity for attendees to witness craft in action. The project was the culmination of a five-day Community Education class taught at the School—one of over 120 similar classes NBSS offers to the public each year, in an array of disciplines. 

On Friday, NBSS provided programming for kids and families from 10:00am to 3:00pm. These fun activities were specifically tailored for younger children (ages 3-8), and included interactive toys, coloring sheets, and learning materials, which provided a fun and educational experience for all attendees.

Attendees also had the opportunity to learn from staff and students about the School’s wide range of Community Education classes, which cater to various skill levels and interests. Materials with a focus on woodworking, timberframe construction, and preservation carpentry were available.

“We are delighted to collaborate with the Greenway Conservancy to bring this exceptional event to the community,” said Sarah Turner, President of NBSS. “Through the Timberframe Raising, we aim to showcase the simple beauty of this particular structure, the tangible benefits of hands-on work, and many ways people of all ages and abilities can access craft in their everyday lives. We look forward to a day filled with creativity, learning, and community engagement.”

“This partnership with North Bennet Street aligns perfectly with our mission to provide enriching experiences and to showcase amazing community connections,” stated Chris Cook, Executive Director of The Greenway. “We are excited to hosts a timberframe raising in a public, urban setting for all to enjoy.”

Photos from the Event

The Timberframe Raising event is free and open to the public, taking place on Friday, June 30, 2023 at The Greenway’s Carolyn Lynch Garden, near the intersection of North Street and Surface Road. The timberframe is expected to be fully installed by 4:00 pm on Friday and the structure will remain in place until Monday, July 3. Family activities will run on Friday only, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information about North Bennet Street School and its Community Education classes, please visit nbss.edu.

Note: High-resolution images and additional press materials are available upon request. No alternate date for the raising will occur in the event of rain.