Bensonwood

Bensonwood’s history began with New England’s building history. The pioneers of this region created durable, honestly-crafted buildings framed in heavy timbers, and held together by mortise-and-tenon joinery. This timber frame form of construction was dominant in buildings in America until the late 1800s. After that, new building methods, the westward expansion and the increasing need to build quickly, slowly led to the demise of the timber framing craft in this country.

In 1974, Tedd Benson became intrigued by these remarkable timber-framed houses and barns — many of which had stood for more than two centuries. Impressed with the durability and beauty of these structures, he worked to revive the ancient craft of timber framing for contemporary homes using modern tools and methods.

His passion for timber framing quickly got the attention of the region’s dedicated woodworkers, and he formed Benson Woodworking Company. Together, Tedd and his co-workers refined the forgotten craft of framing buildings with heavy timbers for modern living. The collaboration of this group led to a series of innovative ideas; many of which are still being used today at Bensonwood. And as the company has grown, the relentless drive and enthusiasm to create better building strategies have continued.

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