User reviews

I just happened upon this gem because my friends have Magnolia Network and I was pet sitting. I really hope it becomes a hit. It is really wonderful! I'm hooked already and I can't wait to see more. His philosophy on life and caring for and saving of beautiful historic woodwork along with his love of the woods is just a way of thinking we're losing in our modern world. It's a bit of a documentary style. I really love it and feel like everyone should be watching it. I learned history and the show made me laugh and smile too because The Craftsman is a character and has a great sense of humor. Please watch and share. You will be happy you did! 💗😁👍🏻

A really good show. Love Mr. Hollenbeck; he is such a great old dude. I love his spiritual nature. My only complaint sis I wish they would spend more time in his fabulous workshop. His machines are amazing.

I loved being able to escape into the world of woodworking by hand, small town living and community while watching this show. Pepper in Eric's ability to have fun and laugh, you feel like you're a part of the community- the history, the scenery and the people. I especially enjoyed watching the woodworking portions, as someone who has done a very small amount of woodworking myself. Watching Eric explain the nuances of his craft while working is my favorite. I could watch those portions all day long.

We need more happy good feeling TV like this. It was a real pleasure to watch and see how things are done in Eurkea California. I REALLLY enjoyed learning the history of the Blue OX mill.

A most positive family viewing experience for ages 8 to 108! This one showcases not only the Craftsman's amazing skill but the simple yet profound wisdom that he's developed along the way. It proves the paradox that to truly keep something we must be willing to give it away. What he's created from his life and his willingness to share it with us is the true masterpiece! Thank you to all involved in bringing this gem to life!

This journey thought the story of a man and craft give you a lot to ponder. The show gives you a real appreciation for someone who has spent a lifetime honing their craft. You will pick up life lessons and get to know a loving family who gives so much back to their local community. This is a great show and I cant wait for the next episode!

Having lived in California's north coast communities, I have a deep sense of memory where the hands-on craftsman energy is concerned, having worked with all sorts of builders, artists, loggers... This show features a family that carries on the hands-on traditions of mostly forgotten skills in creating and restoring using techniques that are the soul of a simpler time, a time devoid of hurrying and relying on complex outsider technologies. It is inspiring, humorous, and warm-hearted, and for those of us who long for a time without all this technological nonsense and superficial cookie-cutter materialism, The Craftsman is a much-needed reprieve and reminder that we don't need to race forward into an abyss of mundane disconnection from the planet Earth.

Growing up in Humboldt county had been a gift and this show is a wonderful expression of that gift. Both sides of my family have been in this country for hundreds of years and I love this show for its glimpse into one of the most beautiful arts and piece of American history our country holds...the Victorian home. Thank you Eric and family for your dedication to this art and thank you so much for sharing through this wonderful show! All yes!

Eric is a beautiful old soul that truly loves his work and the spirit of what he does.

A master craftsman that has a heart for nature and the amazing redwood trees he so adores.

Don't miss this feel good masterpiece.

So so good.

Mr. Hollenbeck is a lovely man who is clearly a success as a craftsman. Problem is, we don't get to see a lot of that being done. We see a bit here and there, projects completed by others as he wanders around checking things out, but mostly what we get is to hear a lot of his personal philosophy about "life". That's fine but maybe they should change the title of the show to "The Philosopher". No insult intended, but this is not a show during which one gets to see a lot going on during the process of taking something from dilapidated to refurbished, or from nothing to something. Maybe I don't get the focus of the show, or maybe they don't really know what the focus is?

The Craftsman is a unicorn reality show. It invokes tranquility and a sense of purpose; an antidote to a frantic, electronic world. Eric Hollenbeck is a treasure and Eureka and its architecture are his costars. His fascinating tidbits of Humboldt County history are gems; his philosophy is inspiring and thought provoking.

Eric has mastered the Carson Mansion's woodwork repairs and additions for over 30 years. Hopefully, by training others to carry on his legacy, he will inspire younger generations to carry on these traditions. It looks like there will be only two seasons but I am grateful for each episode.

Respect to Eric, thank you for your service in Vietnam. That was not easy, and I am sorry you had to endure the horrors that you did. I know this is late, but Welcome Home!

This show is wonderful, it makes you feel good, it is informative, it is just very special!

I wish there were more shows like this!

I record all my shows and watch them later. I don't rush through watching The Craftsmen, I save them and watch them when I can savor them, they are that good!

I can't wait to drive from Maine to Eureka to see Eric's stomping grounds!

Best show on television! Chip and Joanna you have to keep this one!

Great show. Nice look into a craftsman's life and his view on the world. Really enjoyed and should be watched by all. Eric gives some wonderful life advise.

This show is like no other. It is educational, relaxing and funny. I love the old tools he uses. It is refreshing to see how he works with the old tools in his old shop. He does not use the newest high end tools to do his craft. He explains what the tool does and why he is using it. He also throws in some history. What make it so peaceful, is the way he speaks. He is knowledgeable, profound at times, calming and humorous. I feel both inspired and relaxed at the end of each episode. I cannot watch just one. I hope he does this for years to come. If he does, I will watch and enjoy every episode.