In a message dated 11/18/1999 8:26:35 AM Eastern Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> Do any of you know what this lumber would be used for and/or what
>       special (presumably desirable) qualities waterlogged lumber would
>       have?

A paleo-botanical friend of mine guessed that waterlogged lumber would be
excellent for fine furniture or in building applications where a quality
wood grain is desired, such as flooring or extensive trim areas, et cetera.
 The idea being that it would be far too valuable (and attractive) for
basic building applications (structure, painted surfaces) and would be cut
up into small lots for sale so as to get the most from a single log...

He also mentioned that the key to preservation of the wood structure is an
anaerobic condition:  either the deep lakes or being covered in river
sediment -- conceivably, the wood could be preserved for several hundred
years in such an environment.

The Churchmouse