Historic Wood Reclaimed by Local Furniture Manufacturer

The heavy planking from the deck of Cedar Key's now-demolished Big Dock is taking on new life, thanks to the work of Herman Wells. Wells owns and operates Well's Wood, a manufacturer of garden furniture in Cedar Key. The salvaged deck planks, pilings and some of the dock's beams are being reworked and emerge as well seasoned lumber of a special quality.

Mr. Wells at a planer in his shop.

Mr. Wells said the planking is pine that was put down about sixty years ago. The pilings, although partially covered with barnacles, are quite sound and in some cases have been turned into 8 x8's or 6 x 6's. Some of the pilings will be used for pole barns without being reworked. Not only does the salvage operation save cutting of living trees, but also saves space in the Levy County landfill and the cost of transportation.

Editor`s Note: Online readers may be interested in reading a June 15,2004 Cedar Key News article by Maureen Landress describing the manufacture of furniture by Mr. Wells.

Mr. Wells with his faithful Spaniel Misty Ann, who was a Cedar Key News Dog of the Week in 2004.