181: From Grange Halls to Sprung Floors

In this minisode, Stacy and guest co-host Steve Jordan follow a road-trip-inspired rabbit hole that starts with the Grange and leads to dancing—and the ingenious floors, dating back to the 18th century, that made it possible. They talk about how rural communities actually spent time together, Grange halls, gatherings, and yes, dancing, which leads straight into Steve's niche obsession: sprung dance floors. Steve literally wrote the book on them, and they were once fairly commonplace in grand ballrooms, taverns, dance halls, and other community spaces. Long before modern metalworking and the kind of springs we think of today, builders came up with surprisingly clever ways to give a floor enough flex to carry a full night of dancing. Then, Stacy and Steve spend a few minutes chatting about the State of Restoration project. Steve has more than 30 years in historic preservation, and he shares what he's seeing, especially in Rochester, New York. The interest in saving old buildings is strong, but the number of skilled tradespeople who can actually do the work is another story. Steve is one of those people who has a deep well of knowledge and isn't afraid to use it. Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books).