Norm Abram

Born

1949-10-03

Birthplace

Woonsocket, Rhode Island, USA

Biography

Norm Abram, born on October 3, 1949, in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a renowned American carpenter, author, and television personality, widely recognized for his role as the master carpenter on the PBS series This Old House and as the host of The New Yankee Workshop. Raised in Milford, Massachusetts, Abram learned carpentry skills from his father at a young age and began working on job sites by the time he was nine. He attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, initially studying mechanical engineering before switching to business administration, though he left before completing his degree. After working as a site supervisor for a New England construction firm, Abram founded his own contracting business, Integrated Structures Inc., in 1976. His television break came in 1979 when he was hired to build a small barn for television producer Russell Morash, who soon asked Abram to join This Old House as a regular fixture for its first televised renovation. Abram's humble, practical approach soon made him a fan favorite, and he became synonymous with quality craftsmanship on TV. In 1989, he began hosting The New Yankee Workshop, showcasing his woodworking expertise for 21 seasons, all while continuing his work on This Old House through more than 1,000 episodes and over 50 major home renovation projects. Aside from television, Abram has published several books, contributed to trades education initiatives like Generation NEXT, and has appeared in various media cameos. Respected for his gentle demeanor and passion for teaching, Norm Abram retired from This Old House in 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's most beloved craftsmen and woodworking educators.