Seeking change from rules, regulations, and intruding suburban sophistication, Jerry and his family left Washington state to find a simpler life. In 1976 they settled on a secluded 59 acres along the Grassy Creek. An apprenticeship offered at the Ozark Folk Center turned out to be the key to my future. Through the apprenticeship program sponsored by the Committee of 100, Jerry learned the old fashioned hand-tying method of broom making. By late 1978, he established the family business, Grassy Creek Handcrafted Brooms. For over 32 years, Jerry has recreated the traditional forms influenced by the Shakers and Puritans, and handed down for generations. In keeping with tradition, broom making has become a third generation craft for his family. Inside the studio, amid the aroma of fresh cut sassafras and broomcorn, Jerry ties his brooms using a homemade broom table and tools from the late 1800's. Each broom is individually handcrafted.