Bob "Gramps" Steffenhagen and the next generation of crafters

Clockwise from top left, Bob Powelson(Gramps son-in law),

Laura Powelson (Gramps daughter), Bob "Gramps" Steffenhagen,

and Bob's wife Virginia Steffenhagen

March 23, 2010 - To start out the Faces of America's Arts & Crafts and to go forward, I am first taking a look back at where I've been.  Just before I published the 2010 Late Edition of The Michigan Crafter Magazine, I received an e-mail from family of an old friend.  Below is a copy of the e-mail.

E-Mail to the Editor 

Dear Mr. Walker,

We ran across your 1998 Early Edition Volume 4 Issue 1 Magazine, in which you featured a article on Gramps Steffenhagen and John Maser.  I am Gramps daughter Laura, I would like you to know that Gramps is still alive and teaching my husband and I his crafts of toys and racks.   

He still goes to the shop with us to help and guide us in his way of doing things.  He will soon celebrate his 71st wedding anniversary on the 19th of this month with his wife Virginia.  He will also be celebrating his 92nd birthday this year.  He is more or less confined to the home now so no more craft shows.  Just thought that we would update you on how he was still alive and doing what he can on the crafts.   I have started my own business of his crafts and my own creations to keep him active.  I am known as Laura's Crafts and More. 

Just thought that you would be interested in hearing about Gramps.
 

Sincerely,
Laura Powelson

George's Thoughts

Michigan Craft Shows and the Official Web Site of Michigan's Arts and Crafts Business -  michigancraftshows.com