Lime wood batons

[Otto von Teich]

Anyone know anything about limewood? Places to get it? I have not seen any for sale at lumber yards.Can it be special ordered in a 4x4 size? Is it a soft wood or hardwood? Any wood workers out there? I'm thinking of trying to make a period baton, I think from pics I have I could probably come close to the correct dimensions. Are there any surviving examples in museums? So many questions LOL....Otto

[Templar Bob/De Tyre]

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR><font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Otto von Teich:
Anyone know anything about limewood? Places to get it? I have not seen any for sale at lumber yards.Can it be special ordered in a 4x4 size? Is it a soft wood or hardwood? Any wood workers out there? I'm thinking of trying to make a period baton, I think from pics I have I could probably come close to the correct dimensions. Are there any surviving examples in museums? So many questions LOL....Otto</font><HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Otto:

I hope to answer all your questions with one sentence:

On this side of the Atlantic, it's called Basswood.

Lime is simply the Linden tree, and it's been used for centuries. It's a spongy wood, good for its lightness, and its ability for absorbing impact. You hear stories in the Viking sagas of how linden shields would catch and hold onto an opponent's swordblade.

The trees can grow large, and in period they would also be used as meeting areas because of its size, and the amount of shade it makes.

I think you might be able to get a 4" x 4" piece, but you might have to have it specially cut for the purpose.

------------------
Robert Coleman, Jr.

The Noble Companie and Order of St. Maurice
<B>Those who beat their swords into plowshares end up plowing for those who don't.

Remember: In Living History/Reinactment, Real Life is the Great Leveler of Man.</B>

[Otto von Teich]

AhhhhhhHaaaaaaaa, Thanks Bob!....Otto