Behind the art: New Alexandria woodworker's cabinet on display at Penn's Woods exhibit

Art in the early years of Westmoreland County wasn’t limited to a canvas and paint brush.

Woodworkers around the area with impressive skill created beautiful pieces that stood the test of time, as displayed in the Penn’s Woods exhibit at Westmoreland Historical Society’s education center.

One of those woodworkers was Samuel Brown.

He lived in the New Alexandria area and advertised his cabinet making business in an April 1801 edition of Farmer’s Register.

Brown was an Irish immigrant who touted his experience with woodworking around the country.

He used walnut or cherry wood in a plain or ornamental style.

A four-drawer chest on display has a walnut top with cherry drawers and sides with tulip inlays made of chestnut near the legs.

Wood beading runs along the sides and through the center. The item was donated to the society in 2015 as part of an estate.

Collections manager Joanna T. Moyar said Brown’s detailed advertisement showed off his credentials, but he kind of disappeared from the county, like many others who came in, worked in specific areas and then moved on.

The piece he left behind that is on display appears to be in great condition, despite being used.

“How nicely the wood stands up over time and just gets a beautiful patina,” Moyar said.

“It’s functional but it’s a piece of art.”

In Brown’s advertisement, he mentions that he can produce a variety of inlays for his pieces, including flowers, birds and shells.

He offered delivery within 20 miles for customers who spent $40.

He also sought an apprentice in the Farmer’s Register, looking for someone who had “good morals and industry.”

The Penn’s Woods exhibit will run through Thanksgiving weekend.