By Angel Nuñez
The reason why very few people are building wood houses nowadays is that the lifespan of wood is cut very short by the devastating woodlice. Carpenters argue that the trees are cut when they are too young and immature and are therefore non-resistant to the lice. Another factor that makes this lumber durable is that it is all mahogany which was abundant and cheap at the time.
Not so Years Ago in San Pedro. It would seem that only when trees had reached their full size that they were cut and processed into lumber. This lumber was cut into siding, flooring, 2 by 4, 2 by 6, 2 by 8, 2by 10 and even 2 by 12 for steps. As you take a walk around San Pedro you can appreciate some of these homes that were built in the 1930’s or 40’s and are seventy five plus years.
Now if you were to cut a piece of this lumber with a saw, you would notice that the wood is dry and solid. There is no sign of rotting, no sign of wood lice, and very little deterioration. Like the people of the past who had a long lifespan, so was the wood.
House of Paula Manrique
Then and Now: House of Mr. Jose Gonzalez
Then and Now: House of Alfredo “Fred” Alamilla
Then and Now: House of Carlos Marin Sr. now belonging to his son Aldo Marin
Then and Now: House of Marciano Salazar
House of Nicolas Varela
House of Priciliano “Nano” Gomez
25 Years Ago Books Can Be Purchased At:
-Ambergris Today -Lala’s Store -Chico’s Meat Shop -Pampered Paws -Ambergris Jade -San Pedro BTB Office -Aquarius Salon (Kim) -S.P. Town Library -Di Bush –Richie’s Stationery -San Pedrano’s Stationery -Rum, Coffee & Cigar House
Contact the Author at: nunez_nest@yahoo.com
