Well, here I am again: Larry the straggler. Loved this article! The beams in all the old houses and barns (1856-1900) in our seven villages were hewn from oak and walnut trees felled in the surrounding timber. The beams in the oldest of these houses still bear the adze marks made before a sawmill mill was set up. All furniture was made here too, exclusively of cherry and walnut from trees that also grew--and still do--in our forests. The beams were joined by tongue, groove and peg. No nails. Wooden spoons, ladles, and spatulas were made here and used in all the communal kitchens. And, of course, wood was used for both heating and cooking. Our forests are carefully managed. There is no clear-cutting, and replanting is an ongoing activity. New groves are also planted to provide walnut and cherry trees for future furniture-making.