About the Craftsman
Arthur and Lindsey Govoni are proud parents of two beautiful children and the current stewards of a family tradition rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and care.
When Lindsey was young, her grandfather, Jack Buckingham, taught her how to make and sell hods, instilling in her a strong foundation in craftsmanship, business practices, and financial literacy from an early age. Those early lessons, learned side by side in the workshop, left a lasting impression and planted the seeds for a lifelong appreciation of handmade work.
Today, Lindsey is passionate about passing that tradition on to her own children, finding joy in creating together and nurturing their curiosity and creativity. Arthur, a skilled woodworker with a passion for building and creating, shares Lindsey’s commitment to preserving this family legacy. He has developed a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship, ingenuity, and techniques that Jack brought to each hod and takes great pride in helping carry those traditions forward.
Today, each hod is handcrafted in Arthur and Lindsey’s home on Islesboro, Maine, continuing a legacy built on family, craftsmanship, and intention. More than a basket, every hod represents generations of knowledge, hard work, and the enduring joy of creating something meaningful by hand.
The Making of the Maine Hod
Every Maine Hod begins with carefully selected, locally sourced pine boards chosen for their strength, character, and beauty. Each piece is cut and shaped by hand, transforming raw lumber into the distinctive curved profile and signature handle that have defined the Maine Hod for generations.
The individual slats are drilled using original machinery dating back to the earliest days of production, preserving the authentic methods established by Jack Buckingham in 1984. Each slat is then meticulously hand-sanded until smooth to the touch, ensuring both beauty and durability.
Once prepared, the slats are assembled using original copper nails and secured in a jig that has been part of the hod-making process since the very first baskets were crafted. This time-honored approach ensures consistency while honoring the traditions and techniques passed down through generations.
The final step is perhaps the most recognizable: the handcrafted curved handle. Carefully shaped and sanded by hand, it is designed to fit comfortably in your grip while showcasing the craftsmanship that makes each hod unique.
From the first cut to the final sanding, every Maine Hod requires hours of skilled workmanship and attention to detail. No two are exactly alike. Each one carries with it a story of Maine craftsmanship, family tradition, and a commitment to creating something built to last for generations.
