By Stephen Peplow.
Ted’s table is a robust structure which will probably last well beyond the lifetimes of those who made it. These notes outline its interesting history.
In 2014, Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) announced that it would exercise its property rights to land adjacent to the railway line. The Kerrisdale Community Garden had approximately ten raised beds on this land. The beds were deconstructed and a new boundary fence was constructed. The wood from the beds was left piled up.
In the fall of 2015, Joy, the then president, asked Stephen to move the wood into the confines of the garden, which he did. In March 2016, Stephen had the idea of making a rustic table out of the wood, and invited suggestions in the Update of 29 April 2016. Ted has previously volunteered to help with construction projects and so Ted and Stephen teamed up. Nothing happened until August 2016—jobs, family commitments, the apiary project took precedence.
Ted made an intelligent and thoughtful design, using as much of the recycled wood as possible. Some of the work, especially cutting and sawing, took place in Stephen’s garage, with assembly on site. Throughout, Ted was in charge, making changes and adjustments as the work continued.
The table stands as a testimony to Ted’s craftsmanship, perseverance and high standards. It is also an example of the construction of something worthwhile out of recycled materials.
Comment: A few days after the table was finished a matching bench has magically appeared right next to it. What a wonderful seating arrangement our garden now has. This definitely calls for a garden potluck party. Thanks again, Ted and Stephen, for all the work you have put in this.
Kerrisdale Community Garden 