From Stone Walls to Buckeye Brick: How Being a Mainer Shaped My Love for Masonry—and How Ohio Became My Next Chapter

Apr 23, 2025 | Blog

There’s a certain pride that comes with being a Mainer—a quiet resilience forged by rocky coastlines, dense forests, and generations who knew how to build things that could withstand whatever nature threw their way. Growing up in Maine, surrounded by weathered stone walls, historic homes, and lighthouses anchored in granite, I didn’t just witness craftsmanship—I lived it.

It was in those landscapes that my love for masonry was born. In Maine, stone isn’t ornamental—it’s foundational. It tells stories of survival, tradition, and timeless workmanship. I learned early that a true craftsman doesn’t just build for today—he builds for decades, even centuries. That mindset became the cornerstone of who I am and how I approach every project.

But life has a way of moving you—sometimes far from the places where your story began.

Finding a New Foundation in Ohio

Today, I call Ohio home. And while the rocky shores of New England are miles behind me, I’ve discovered something remarkable here in the heart of the Midwest—a place where tradition still matters, where communities value hard work, and where brick, block, and stone tell stories just as powerfully as they do back East.

Ohio wasn’t just a relocation—it became the next chapter of my journey. I didn’t lose my identity as a Mainer; I brought those values with me and found that they fit seamlessly into the spirit of Ohio. The Buckeye State has its own architectural legacy—historic brick streets, proud farmhouses, industrial buildings with character, and neighborhoods where masonry defines the landscape.

I fell in love with Ohio the same way I fell in love with Maine—not because it was easy, but because it was real. The people here respect craftsmanship. They understand that a well-built chimney or a restored stone wall isn’t just about appearance—it’s about preserving something meaningful. It’s about creating work that lasts longer than we do.

Bridging Two Worlds Through Craftsmanship

At Curatola Masonry, every project is a reflection of where I’ve been and where I am now. From the rugged stonework traditions of Maine to the rich brick heritage of Ohio, I’ve built a business—and a life—on the belief that true masonry is more than a trade. It’s a legacy.

Being a Mainer taught me how to build with purpose.

Living in Ohio taught me how to grow that purpose into something bigger.

This state has given me the opportunity to expand my craft, to serve communities that appreciate quality, and to mentor the next generation of tradespeople who will carry this work forward. Ohio isn’t just where I work—it’s where I’ve planted new roots, both personally and professionally.

The Next Chapter: Building More Than Structures

As I look ahead, I see more than just projects on the calendar—I see the chance to blend the best of both worlds. The resilience of Maine. The opportunity of Ohio. The timeless craft of masonry connecting them both.

I’m grateful for where I came from. I’m proud of where I am. And I’m excited for what’s next.

Because whether it’s along a rocky coastline or a brick-lined street in the Midwest, one thing remains true:

Good work speaks for itself—and great work stands the test of time.