5. What are the different characteristics of the hardwoods you offer?

At McKinnon, you can choose from four beautiful hardwoods. You can also mix two or more in any given piece. They are:

Black Cherry (species: prunes semolina):

American black cherry is a hard, straight-grained wood with a fine texture. It is reddish brown to deep red with some brown flecks and small gum pockets. It sands to a silky smooth finish. Cherry is known for its beautiful markings with occasional clusters of tiny pin knots, or very small, dark streaks of gum. These natural characteristics result in individual pieces that are truly unique.

When first finished, the color has a light golden tone. Due to exposure to light and air, the aging process changes the color to a rich reddish brown. The aging process happens quickly and objects on the top surface should be moved to prevent aging marks. The first several months are the most critical in this regard.

The cherry we use is grown in the Allegheny forests of Pennsylvania, known for producing the best American black cherry. We buy from mills whose environmental stewardship and sustainable forest practices are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

American Colonists used the cherry tree for fruit and medicinal purposes in addition to home furnishings. A cordial called Cherry Bounce was made by mixing cherry juice with rum. The bark was used to make drugs to treat bronchitis and the stalks were ingredients in tonics.

Eastern Maple (acer saccharum):

Often referred to as Hard Rock Maple or sugar maple because of its density, this species has been a favorite of furniture makers since early Colonial times. It is very heavy, finely textured with a straight grain. The sapwood is white and is selected for its light color. Hard maple is abrasion resistant and polishes to a smooth natural finish. As maple ages, the tone changes from a white to a golden hue. The aging process of maple is slower than cherry.

This wood is extremely hard and is used for bowling alleys, gymnasium floors, flooring and millwork. Because it does not impart a taste or odor, it is the standard for cutting boards and butcher blocks.

This species grows in the upper mid-West and the New England states.

African Ribbon Mahogany:

This species has spectacular grain patterns and rich color variations. Unlike Honduras or Cuban Mahogany, which have become endangered, the African Mahogany is readily available and is harvested sustainably. The color is light pink to reddish-brown.

As with other woods, the aging process means the color will become richer over time.

The wood is from Ivory Coast, Gold Coast, French Cameroon, Cape Lopez and Nigeria.

Black Walnut (juglans nigra):

American Black walnut is a strong, durable wood with straight to wavy grain, typically chocolate brown with dark streaks. It occasionally will have a purple or grayish cast. It develops a rich patina with age and is considered one of the most prized woods.

While it grows throughout the Eastern U.S., the principal commercial region is the Central states. The walnut tree roots release a toxic material which may kill plants growing above them. It does not grow in pure stands and individual trees are often shorter-bodied and of medium diameter, making larger and longer dimension pieces harder to obtain. It is one of the few American species that is planted and naturally regenerates.

In ancient Greece and well into modern European history, walnuts were a symbol of fertility and were strewn at weddings. It is used for furniture, cabinets, flooring, and gun stocks.

Return to Questions  |  Next Question