December 2004
One of York’s most distinguished craftsmen is hanging up his mallet and chisels.
After more than 40 years running his famous wood and stone carving business in York, Dick Reid has decided to call it a day.
York is full of examples of Dick’s craftsmanship, the most prominent being the coats
of arms he has carved for each of York’s medieval guild halls, and at the Kings Manor.
The quality of his work carried his reputation, and that of the team of craftsmen and
women he has built up around him, across the country, and into Ireland and America too.
His most prestigious work features in the royal palaces. After the great fire at Windsor
Castle he was appointed supervisor to the Royal household for the restoration of the
Carlton House Trophies, and for eight years he worked on the large restoration at
Spencer House.
In addition to his personal work in carving and restoration he has made a major contribution to training and bringing on younger talent and in influencing the training
of carvers. Many outstanding carvers who have established their own businesses around the city and beyond, developed their skills in Dick’s workshop and under his
supervision.
His contribution to the city extends beyond his work. He is a past Governor of the
Merchant Adventurers, holds a doctorate of the University, is President of the York
Decorative and Fine Arts Society, and is a Vice-President of both the York Georgian
Society and of the Consortium.