Russell Spears facts for kids
Russell Spears (born March 8, 1917 – died March 9, 2009) was an amazing American stonemason and a respected elder of the Narragansett tribe. He was a member of the tribal council. Russell Spears carried on the tradition of stonemasonry, which the Narragansett people had been doing since the 1600s! He was very well-known for his beautiful stonework all over New England. This included handmade fireplaces, strong stone walls, and lovely patios.
His Life and Hobbies
Russell Spears was born in Providence, Rhode Island. He had many interesting hobbies. He loved playing the guitar and the piano, and he enjoyed singing ballads. He also liked hunting deer. As he got older, he often wore cowboy hats and the Native American jewelry he made himself.
A Career in Stone
Russell Spears first worked at a place called Kenyon Piece Dye Works. But he didn't like working indoors! He soon decided to find a job that let him be outside. Many of his uncles and other family members were stonemasons. He quickly learned the craft from them, becoming very skilled.
For many decades, Russell Spears built stone structures all across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts' Cape Cod. He often added his own artistic touches to his creations, like etched pictures and other special details. His incredible work was even featured in a documentary called Stories in Stone, which was shown on PBS. He also taught his own sons how to carve and shape rocks and stones. This way, he made sure the family and Narragansett traditions of stonemasonry would continue.
Later Years
Russell Spears passed away on March 9, 2009, at South County Hospital in Wakefield, Rhode Island. He was 92 years old. His wife, Grace Babcock (Brown) Spears, had passed away before him.
