What is Dade County Pine?
If you have every worked in the Florida housing market, then you are well acquainted with the high demand historic wood called Dade County Pine. From St Augustine to Key West to Tampa, the likes of home owners, real estate agents and home builders are in search of this coveted antique heart pine. However, to the rest of the world, you may be wondering why it is such a valuable wood type for Floridians.
A native Florida tree, the name is misleading, implying that it is specifically from Dade County in Florida. However, Dade County Pine is native to South Florida and the Keys but was harvested as far north as the shores of Georgia and Alabama. Dade County Pine is a subspecies of Longleaf Southern Yellow Pine and comes from the “heart” of the tree aka heart pine. Some know it as Dade County Slash Pine. It is a high demand construction material because it is strong, dense, and highly resistant to decay and insect damage.
The Wood of Historic Florida
It was a common building material for Florida homes in the 1800s. Most of the well know Florida historic sites are built and furnished with Dade County Pine. It is not uncommon to find historic buildings filled with antique Dade County Pine flooring, beams, mill work etc. The Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale is a perfect example. Built with all local materials, including dade county pine wall paneling and ceiling, this picturesque home displays this antique woods’ beauty.
Another beautiful example is the Historic Key West lighthouse and keeper’s quarters located near the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. One of our own projects, the Key West Lighthouse, built in 1825, was in need of repair. As in most historic restorations, quality is incredibly important. The results were seamless. It is nearly impossible to tell where the original wood ends and the restoration work begins.
Since the old growth trees have all been harvested, it is an incredibly high demand material. It comes from the “heart” of the tree and was a favored construction material wood. This was due to it being a strong, dense wood that is highly resistant to decay and insect damage.
Supplying Dade County Pine Quality
Albany Woodworks has established itself as a heavy hitter in the historic ring. Founded on history, quality and craftsmanship in 1976, it has provided Dade County Pine quality products to multiple historic restorations in Florida, including the Key West Lighthouse, the Southside Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale, and the Hemingway House in Key West. Albany Woodworks ensures that the antique pine flooring matches the existing quality of existing historic homes or buildings.
Reviving History: Albany Woodworks at South Side Cultural Arts Center
The South Side Cultural Arts Center, formerly a historic school, has been beautifully restored in Fort Lauderdale and now stands as a hub for arts and community programs. Featuring the charm of Dade County Pine, this 1922 building is a testament to the durability and beauty of this rare wood. If you're inspired by the history and timeless craftsmanship on display, consider enhancing your next project with Dade County Pine from Albany Woodworks. Contact us today at (225) 567-1155 to bring this iconic wood into your home or restoration project!