Skip Barshied Jr.’s Collections

A picture of Skip Barshied smiling.

Willis “Skip” Barshied

1930 - 2020
Born in 1930, Skip was a true heart of the Mohawk Valley, spending most of his life in the charming Stone Arabia. He had a real passion for the area's history and poured his energy into saving and sharing its treasures.

Imagine someone who not only loved old things but brought them back to life! Skip was a key figure in preserving landmarks like Fort Klock and beautiful old farms. He even helped others connect with their family stories through his amazing collections and writings, like his book "Shoes for John" and those fun "Whatchmacallits" in the paper.

He was also a friendly face in the community, always ready to lend a hand to groups like the Stone Arabia Preservation Society and the local library. People around the Mohawk Valley clearly appreciated his dedication, honoring him with special awards. Skip was someone who truly made a difference in keeping the past alive for everyone.
An image of the interior of a building at Kilts Farm filled with tools collected by Skip Barshied.
Skip’s Tool Collection
Skip, a lifelong resident of the Mohawk Valley, meticulously gathered a remarkable collection of traditional tools. He achieved this by focusing on artifacts within a narrow 40-mile radius, providing an unparalleled look into the material culture of the Palatine German settlements. This collection features multiple examples of the same tools, allowing for unique comparisons and a deeper understanding of historical craftsmanship.
An image of Skip Barshied sharing with others at an event.
Skip’s Essay Collection
Skip was a gifted storyteller who made the history of Stone Arabia and nearby regions vivid and engaging. He achieved this by sharing stories like the history of the Kilts farm, writing poems, submitting letters to the editor, and crafting historical essays and reflections on local nature.
Explore the Essays
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