Gruber Wagon Works Photo Trek
The Gruber Wagon Works survives as one of the most complete examples of an integrated rural manufactory of its kind in the nation. Erected in 1882 by Franklin H. Gruber, the wagon works evolved from a single craftsman shop, having a variety of specialized hand tools, into a family-operated business which employed up to 20 men who utilized mass-production methods. Unlike a modern assembly process, wagon parts were transported back and forth between various rooms in order to complete a segment of the work.
Wagon wheels were constructed in the bench shop, and wooden parts of the wagon were made from patterns in the wood shop. Wheels were “tired” and wagons were “ironed” and assembled in the blacksmith shop. The distinctive striping and scrollwork were applied by hand in the paint shop.
During the winter of 1976-77, the Gruber Wagon Works was moved by the Army Corps of Engineers from its original location near Mt. Pleasant. In 1978, the Gruber Wagon Works was designated as a National Historical Landmark by the United States Government, commemorating its historic significance as an industry from a bygone era of American craftsman.
Join us for a fantastic photography workshop in this amazing place! We will have private access to the Wagon Works for 4 hours! Come early and explore the other buildings which make up the Berks Heritage Center. This includes the Wertz’s Covered Bridge, a hidden cemetery with 100 year old tombstones, the very colorful Der Distelfink statue and more!
You’ll have fun photographing and exploring two full floors of vintage wagons and all the tools and textiles that went along with working on them. There is a great collection of vintage wheels, tools, paint cans, work benches and much more! You’ll learn to create more compelling compositions, work with contrasty light, use exposure bracketing to create a series of images that can later be merged into HDR or Hi Dynamic Range images. Some models offer this feature in-camera , so we can work on gaining a better understanding of that feature, as well. This is a great opportunity to learn in a fun and friendly environment!
Ticket fee includes a pre-trek Zoom class, private access to the Wagon Works, instruction throughout the workshop, follow up and access to our private Facebook group.
Workshop is great for all levels of photo enthusiasts! An email will be sent prior to the event with details on the pre-trek Zoom class, what to bring and what to expect. This is a smaller venue, so registration will be kept to a smaller number. So don’t wait-register today!
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Updated Terms & Conditions – Valerie A Hoffman Photography (March 2023)
As we live in our new ‘normal’, the following updated policies are being put in place to protect the health and wellbeing of all workshop attendees, as well as those who we will come in contact with during events.
That being said, here is what you need to know and comply with:
- Anyone who is sick with COVID like symptoms or has a fever over 100 degrees must not attend the event. Amount paid may be put towards a future workshop, or can be refunded in full if notice is given in advance. Suggest checking your temperature BEFORE leaving home. By registering for an event, you also agree to a touchless temperature check at the initial gathering for any workshop or trek.
- Face Masks are optional unless otherwise specified.
Cancellation Policy:
Two (2) weeks notice is required to receive a full refund. 75% refund of the Trek fee with only one (1) week notice. NO refund will be given if less than one (1) week notice is given for cancellation. Must call to cancel. We reserve the right to cancel the Trek at our discretion. Minimum number of participants is necessary to run event.