"Bird Houses Boys Can Build" by Albert Frederick Siepert, published in 1916, is a practical guide aimed at young boys (and anyone interested!) to design, construct, and install birdhouses in their backyards or gardens.
Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to find in this book:
Target Audience:
- The book is geared towards young boys, fostering an interest in birds and woodworking through birdhouse building.
- The instructions are likely presented in a clear and simple manner, making them easy to understand for young readers.
Encouraging Bird Watching:
- The book might go beyond just building birdhouses. It could introduce basic birdwatching concepts, encouraging boys to observe the birds that utilize the houses they build.
Variety of Birdhouse Designs:
- The book likely includes instructions for building various birdhouses suitable for different bird species.
- It might include designs for:
- Simple birdhouses with basic shapes (rectangular, triangular)
- More elaborate birdhouses with multiple compartments or unique features
- Houses designed to attract specific bird species with varying needs (e.g., wrens, bluebirds)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- The book likely provides clear, step-by-step instructions for building each birdhouse, including:
- Materials list (type and amount of wood, nails, screws)
- Tools needed (hammer, saw, drill, etc.)
- Cutting diagrams and measurements for different parts of the birdhouse
- Assembly instructions, explaining how to put all the pieces together
Tips and Techniques:
- The book might offer helpful tips and techniques for successful birdhouse building, such as:
- Choosing the right location for the birdhouse (considering sunlight, shelter from wind, and distance from obstacles)
- Ensuring proper ventilation and drainage within the birdhouse
- Techniques for attaching the birdhouse securely to a tree or post
Historical Context:
- Published in 1916, the book reflects the tools and materials commonly available at that time.
- Some adaptations might be necessary if using modern woodworking tools and materials.
Overall, "Bird Houses Boys Can Build" by Albert Frederick Siepert is a charming and practical guide that encourages youngsters (and anyone with an interest!) to explore birdwatching and woodworking through the engaging activity of building birdhouses. It provides clear instructions for constructing various birdhouses, fostering a connection with nature and the feathered residents of our backyards.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- The book might include illustrations or diagrams to visually represent the birdhouse designs and construction steps.
- Despite being aimed at a younger audience, the instructions and concepts can be valuable for anyone interested in building birdhouses to attract feathered friends.
- The book is likely out of copyright and freely available online through various sources.