The New Yankee Workshop (1989)

Episode Overview

In this episode, Norm takes us on a journey to Utah to observe the deconstruction of a historic twelve-mile railway trestle, built in the early 1900s. By the 1950s, advancements in engineering rendered the trestle obsolete, leading to the abandonment of its impressive wood pilings that once allowed the Southern Pacific to traverse the Great Salt Lake. Over time, the wood—comprised of Douglas fir and redwood—absorbed lake brine, resulting in vibrant, unique coloration. Norm decides to repurpose some of this intriguing trestle wood to craft his own outdoor chaise lounge, while also exploring contemporary efforts to utilize this distinctive material.