The provided sources present a unique and unexpected connection to a birthstone – not a traditional gem, but Douglas Fir timber. While not typically recognized as a gemstone, the detailed descriptions of this wood, its historical uses, and its significance to families and craftsmanship offer a compelling narrative. This article explores the properties, history, and cultural relevance of Douglas Fir, framing it within the context of a birthstone-like association through familial connection and enduring legacy. The sources primarily focus on the timber industry and its connection to family history, rather than gemological properties, so this article will reflect that emphasis.
A History Rooted in Craftsmanship
The story of Douglas Fir, as presented in the provided materials, is deeply intertwined with the history of Cedar Ridge Timber Company and the Wiederholt family. Beginning in 1983 with carpentry work and evolving into Wiederholt Custom Homes in 1988, the family’s dedication to custom design and quality craftsmanship forms the core of its legacy. This commitment led to the adoption of computer-aided drafting programs in the 1990s, further enhancing their ability to create bespoke homes. Over thirty years, the company designed and built over sixty custom homes, establishing a reputation for intricate, quality products built to last.
This dedication to enduring quality is mirrored in the choice of Douglas Fir as the standard timber frame material. The wood’s historical popularity for exterior timber framing stems from its good rot resistance when properly maintained, coupled with its strength-to-weight ratio. The source materials emphasize the importance of sourcing high-quality Douglas Fir, specifically fire-standing dead (FSD) trees from the Pacific Northwest, which often exhibit prominently straight and strong grain patterns due to their age. This focus on the origin and quality of the material highlights a reverence for the natural world and a commitment to using resources responsibly.
The Significance of Timber Framing
Timber framing, as a construction method, is presented as a significant structural component, representing a connection to the past. The narrative draws a parallel between the present-day craftsman and those who came before, referencing an “Island City resident of days gone by” and a fragile flower planted long ago. This evokes a sense of continuity and the enduring nature of well-crafted work. The act of placing a peg in a timber frame is envisioned as a connection to this history, prompting future generations to contemplate the dedication and skill of the craftsman.
The Wiederholt family’s approach to timber framing also emphasizes repurposing and sustainability. Utilizing fire-standing dead trees embodies a commitment to recycling and minimizing environmental impact. This aligns with a broader philosophy of using what is readily available and honoring the natural bounty of the land. The company actively seeks to reduce its carbon footprint by coordinating timber orders to maximize efficiency and minimize transportation costs.
Douglas Fir: Properties and Comparisons
While not a gemstone in the traditional sense, Douglas Fir possesses distinct properties that contribute to its value and suitability for timber framing. The sources highlight its strength, rot resistance (when properly treated), and finished color flexibility. It is noted to be stronger than Western Red Cedar (WRC) and Eastern White Pine (EWP), though it lacks the natural tannins that provide WRC with inherent insect and rot resistance. Compared to EWP, Douglas Fir is stronger and more rot-resistant, but EWP allows for lighter finished stain colors.
The sources do not provide detailed gemological properties like refractive index or hardness, as these are irrelevant to timber. However, they do offer a comparative assessment of its physical characteristics relative to other wood species commonly used in construction. This comparison underscores the Wiederholt family’s informed decision to prioritize Douglas Fir as their standard timber frame material.
Familial Legacy and the Birthstone Analogy
The most compelling aspect of the provided sources is the strong familial connection woven throughout the narrative. The business is a family endeavor, involving Tim, Susie, Lindsey, and Savana, each contributing their unique skills and talents. Lindsey creates custom stone and wire woven jewelry, even incorporating stones from customers’ personal collections into treasured pieces. Savana designed the company website, and the entire family pitches in to achieve shared goals.
This familial bond and the creation of lasting, personalized pieces of jewelry, particularly those incorporating birthstones, create a subtle but powerful analogy. While Douglas Fir isn’t a birthstone in the conventional sense, the act of crafting something enduring and meaningful from it – a timber frame home, a piece of furniture, or even a connection to family history – mirrors the sentiment behind gifting a birthstone. The dedication to craftsmanship, the use of natural materials, and the creation of heirlooms that will be cherished for generations all align with the symbolism associated with birthstones. The wood itself becomes a symbol of family, heritage, and enduring love.
Caring for Douglas Fir
The sources emphasize the importance of proper detailing, finishing, and care to maximize the longevity and rot resistance of Douglas Fir. While not requiring the same care as a gemstone, the wood benefits from protective treatments and regular maintenance. This reinforces the idea that a lasting legacy requires ongoing effort and attention. The wood’s natural beauty is enhanced through careful finishing, allowing its grain patterns to shine.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a unique perspective on a “birthstone” – not a gem, but a material deeply connected to family, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy. Douglas Fir, as the cornerstone of Cedar Ridge Timber Company’s work, embodies these values. Its historical significance, physical properties, and the dedication of the Wiederholt family combine to create a narrative that resonates with the spirit of a birthstone: a symbol of identity, heritage, and lasting affection. While unconventional, the connection between Douglas Fir and the concept of a birthstone highlights the power of craftsmanship, the importance of family, and the enduring beauty of the natural world. The legacy built by the Wiederholt family, like a well-constructed timber frame, is designed to stand the test of time.