The Governor’s Table

This was our 2014 entry for the Texas Furniture Maker's Show in Kerville, Texas. The top of this coffee table comes from a 185 year old Pecan tree that sprouted along the San Gabriel River near present day Jonah, Texas in 1820. For the next 185 years it grew into a massive tree and witnessed many historic events in Texas history. The tree was 25 years old when Texas became a state in 1845. Unfortunately, Mother Nature got the best of the ole pecan tree in 2005. It remained standing dead until 2009 when it was harvested. Using dendrochronology, each annual growth ring was identified and counted. The name of each Texas governor is wood burned along the annual growth rings that correspond to the years of each governor’s administration. The base was salvaged from a Live Oak tree that grew on the University of Texas Campus at Austin. In 2009, a construction project required that the tree be removed. We were able to work with the contractor, and give the tree a new life. In addition to being a functional piece of art and furniture, it is also a part of Texas history. This piece was on display at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center in Kerrville, Texas during October and November of 2014. It sold at the show and will find its new home at a bank in Castroville, Texas.