The American Chestnut tree, affectionately known as Lord of the Forest, was an impressive resource for straight-grained, rot-resistant, lightweight and easy-to-work lumber. Chestnut lumber was used for everything from telegraph poles to fine furniture and musical instruments. The nuts of the tree, being rich in healthy minerals, vitamins, and fiber as well as low in calories and fat, were ideal food sources for all manner of wildlife, including humans.

In the early 1900’s, a fungus that hitched a ride on a boat from overseas started to decimate the American Chestnut population. By 1950, nearly all of the 4 billion American Chestnut trees that had dominated forests across the eastern US had succumbed to Chestnut blight.

Tyler Arboretum is one of many organizations working to re-establish the American Chestnut tree. Tyler collects pollen from trees in the region that have survived the fungus in an attempt to create disease-resistant varieties of the Chestnut tree.

Lord of the Forest: This bowl is made from one of Tyler’s trees that unfortunately died from Chestnut blight. Approximately 9 1/8-9.5” in diameter x 3” deep with all of its original cracks, crevices, and holes. We filled some the major cracks with resin to help stabilize the bowl. If you are looking for a “perfect” bowl this one probably isn’t for you. Movement in the wood is normal and considered part of its charm. Carefully sanded and finished with Betty’s Board Butter. Clean with a damp cloth. Dry immediately. Re-oil occasionally. We’ll give Tyler Arboretum back 15% of the sale.