So, you would love to get your hands on some old-growth lumber to work with. Ya know, stuff found at the bottom of a lake from an old sawmill operation. That’s cool and all, but what about wood that predates the Roman Empire, ancient Egypt or the cave paintings found in France?
In New Zealand, huge forests of Kauri trees toppled over as water levels rose, softening the earth around the root balls. As these trees fell, they became buried in the bogs, preserving their wood for millennia. Some of the trees fell over as recently as 3,000 years ago, but the ancient ones being recovered toppled over nearly 45,000 years ago.
These trees are dug up and slabbed into some of the most amazing wood you have ever seen. This site is the front door to Ancient Kauri Kingdom, an industry leader in the harvest, processing and handling of this treasure from the past. Yes, you can work with it just like any other wood. There’s plenty of information on the site about how the logs are found, how they are processed and how you can purchase some pieces for a special project of your own.
Wow! That guitar is gorgeous!! Thanks, Tom!
It’s beautiful.
I’d be awful nervous cutting it.
Measure three or four times, then cut ! lol
Thanks Tom.
Great post Tom. Absolutly beautiful wood!
Amazing, that figure is so unusual.
I enjoy your blog. Just want to mention to you and any other Tampa area woodworkers that we have some small pieces of the Ancient Kauri wood for sale at Craftsmen Supply Center on Busch Blvd. It has such an interesting story.
Keep up the good work!