4 of 4 Items
4 of 4 Items
When Hans "Former" Nielsen's line of pipe tobacco came out, it was an instant curiosity. Of course, anyone who spent time learning about the world of tobacco pipes has come across the Former name at one point or another. Nielsen has been carving artfully made tobacco pipes since 1956, and his masterful use of briar has been appreciated ever since.
It is interesting to learn that it was chance that brought Nielsen into the tobacco pipe making world. At 15 years old, he was fresh out of school and was looking for work. Browsing the want ads, two caught his eye. His first choice was for a mechanic's position at a local workshop that repaired motorcycles. As he made his way to that job posting, Nielsen saw the long line of young men that were all seeking to fill that one position. Realizing it was a long shot, he turned and instead answered the other ad, repairing tobacco pipes at Suhrs Pibereparation, a pipe shop close to his home. The owners quickly hired Nielsen, and his path as a pipe maker was set.
As a child, Former's mother had him take music lessons. His piano education was highly influential, as it instilled a sense of freedom and creativity that he would use throughout his career.
For many years, Former's tobacco pipes were his primary source of renown and respect. However, he later launched this line of pipe tobacco to fit alongside his pipes. This tobacco has been well received as an excellent addition to his legacy and something that smokers can readily enjoy.
Former's Pipe Tobaccos are primarily Virginia based blends that feature top-notch leaves along with an attention to detail we've come to expect from Former's first for their superior smoking pipes. Most of the tobaccos in this series are named for Hans Nielsen's beloved briar grains.