AS REGULAR READERS OF THIS BLOG KNOW, The last six ukes I have built have Redwood tonewood. I think they are among the best I have built. Three of those, and the three tenors that I am now working on have Redwood from old water tanks atop New York City buildings.
I had no idea until today- but look at this picture.
I had no idea until today- but look at this picture.
Today I learned that NYC has about 15,000 wooden water tanks. It seems that the gravity water system in the city will not provide water above six stories high If you build a building taller than that you install a water tank on the roof. In the old days the tanks were Redwood. Now the new ones are being made of Western Red Cedar.
As the old Redwood tanks come down, I hope to be able to get a supply of that marvelous wood because it makes wonderful soundboards for ukuleles. Wooden water tanks are favored because the three inch planks are excellent insulation, better than 12 inches of concrete. Who Knew?
If any of you readers are Uke or Guitar builders and want to get some of this Redwood get in touch. My friend Back East might be able to get you some and I would be happy to put you in touch with him.