Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Nathaniel Wilson Norwood

Newark,NJ

Summary

Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in historical Moravian arts and crafts, and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Coppersmith

McLean Lighting Works
12.2019 - Current
  • Design and build custom copper lighting using modern and historical methods and equipment for clients throughout North America focusing on nineteenth century designs modernized to meet current building codes.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.

Owner

Five Flues Metalworking
01.1993 - Current
  • Provide ironwork for the custom lighting industry as well as architectural metalwork and historic reproductions of antique hardware.
  • Specializing in Moravian ironwork, recently repaired iron gates on the south end of Cedar Avenue for Salem Congregation.

Director of Interpretation and Educational Programming

Old Salem Museums & Gardens
01.2018 - 12.2019
  • Directed the annual operation of the Education Department including public programming, staff management for more than 45 employees, budget development and administration, staff training and planning and development in coordination with the strategic goals of the museum.

Director of Historic Trades

Old Salem Museums & Gardens
03.1995 - 01.2018
  • Directed the daily operation of the Historic Trades Department, as well as researched and planned for the future implementation of demonstrations applicable to the restored town of Salem.
  • Was responsible for a staff of twelve full time employees, in addition to seasonal part time employees and volunteers.
  • Prepared and administered annual budgets for staffing, materials and equipment.
  • Responsibilities included planning programs, obtaining supplies, scheduling staff, conducting research, directing an historical object reproductions program and teaching classes.
  • Knowledgeable about pre-industrial trades, including tools and techniques.
  • Developed an 18th century gardening, food preservation and baking program.
  • Created a cooperative interdepartmental environment
  • Conducted artifact research for interpretation of object construction and relation to material culture and economic impact, and reproduction
  • Researched, planned and implemented functional workspaces for visitor interaction with the goal of creating a better understanding of Moravian material culture.
  • Conducted staff training
  • Daily shop interpretation and hands on activities
  • Presented lectures on Moravian history during Elderhostel programs hosted by Old Salem Museums & Gardens


Historic Trades Interpreter

Old Salem, Inc.
03.1991 - 01.1995
  • Demonstrated living history skills of late 18th and early 19th century Moravian craftsmen in the restored town of Salem.
  • Worked as a blacksmith, joiner and carpenter using hand tools and 18th century techniques.

Curatorial Intern

Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art
06.1989 - 08.1989
  • Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden and allowing for increased focus on higher-priority assignments.
  • Gained valuable experience working within a nationally recognized museum of art, applying learned concepts directly into relevant work situations.
  • Sorted and organized files and slides regarding the SECCA 7 juried exhibit
  • Gained hands-on experience in various aspects of exhibit installation and removal.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Studio Art

Campbell University
Buies Creek,NC
12.1990

Skills

  • Friendly, positive attitude
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Dependable and responsible
  • Multitasking
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Excellent communication
  • Critical thinking
  • Computer skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Calm under pressure
  • Active listening

Accomplishments

  • Served on Association of Living Historical Farms and Agricultural Museums Board of Directors 2013-2015
  • Developed a working silversmith shop in the John Vogler House
  • Oversaw the establishment of a working historical gunsmithing program in the Timothy Vogler gunsmith Shop
  • Researched and constructed an experimental wood fired pottery kiln based on the archeological records in Salem
  • Expanded and continued development of a behind the scenes modern shop facility
  • Presented at Association of Living Historical Farms and Agricultural Museums Southeast Regional Conference in Colonial Williamsburg
  • Silver presentations for North Carolina Artist and Blacksmith Association of North America, North Carolina Knifemaker Guild, Midwest Tool Collector Association

Timeline

Coppersmith

McLean Lighting Works
12.2019 - Current

Director of Interpretation and Educational Programming

Old Salem Museums & Gardens
01.2018 - 12.2019

Director of Historic Trades

Old Salem Museums & Gardens
03.1995 - 01.2018

Owner

Five Flues Metalworking
01.1993 - Current

Historic Trades Interpreter

Old Salem, Inc.
03.1991 - 01.1995

Curatorial Intern

Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art
06.1989 - 08.1989

Bachelor of Arts - Studio Art

Campbell University