Black Locust — American Teak
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Black Locust Uses: Decking Porch Flooring Fencing Benches Siding Outdoor Furniture Indoor Flooring
 (steamed) Boatbuilding Bridge components Waling
Jamestown, 1607
Black locust was “discovered” by settlers who established Jamestown on the banks of the James River. Cherokee Indians used the wood for bows and blowgun darts. The first Virginia colonists found that the tree made sturdy cornerposts in their houses. Locusts became an important material in the construction of ships, increasing the durability of the American navy in the war of 1812. Since colonial times the best fencing material in the Appalachians has been split locust posts, from the early settlers who constructed all-wooden fences, to modern farmer who use locust posts with barbed wire *R. Kelly Coffee, Appalachian Voices, May 1, 2007.