Photographic update

[Dan Miller]

But, maybe if he'd used more traditional woods he'd still be with us. Sniff!

Maybe, but Gerrish and Morris used one of the finest preservatives (white lead), and they are not with us either...!

is it obviously ancient virgin timber. Late 1800's would be the right time.

By then, the Adirondacks were already being heavily logged. Some 30% clear cut by 1895, 30% virgin forest remaining (but mostly in the more inaccessible areas). Rushton was importing cedar from Michigan and Ontario.

Second growth hardwoods are often superior in boatbuilding contexts than old-growth (the opposite of hardwoods).

It just doesn't have as much lignin or whatever as white, so something has to fill the voids.

White oak has tyloses, which are effectively dams across the pores. Varnish can serve the same purpose in a boat that spends 99% of its life in storage, which is typical of most canoes then and now...

 

[Canerodz]

I didn't even think about the white lead, but you're right. That and various forms of copper were probably the best anti-microbials they had. Well, and arsenic.

 

[Kathryn Klos]

On the other hand, it could be argued that Rushton-- reportedly a sickly man who appeared older than his years-- lived a longer, healthier life than he otherwise might have, had he not been involved with boats. His passion for canoes extended his life... and he lives on, through his boats.

And so, the next time anyone asks why you have so many canoes or spend so much time in your workshop or paddling around, explain that it's a proven way to health and possible immortality.