Make it stand out
Battleship Texas
History, Recrafted
Handcrafted from reclaimed deck wood of the Battleship Texas, these one-of-a-kind pieces preserve the story of America’s last surviving battleship from both World Wars. Only three exist in my shop — each is as rare as the wood itself.
In 2022, I was honored to be invited by the Battleship Texas Foundation to take part in a historic project. Out of 168 artisans across Texas, just 12 of us were woodworkers. Blade smiths were given steel, and we were entrusted with planks from the ship’s century-old deck.
The Foundation asked us to craft items for auction to raise funds for the ship’s restoration. In return, they generously provided each artisan with a small amount of extra material — a chance to create something for our own shops, with their official Certificate of Authenticity.
I still treasure the letter I received thanking me for accepting their invitation. This was more than a commission — it was the opportunity to carry forward the legacy of an American icon.
My Invitation to Contribute
The Story of the Wood
The deck wood of the Battleship Texas has seen more than a hundred years of history. From World War I patrols to the D-Day landings of World War II, countless sailors’ boots walked these planks. Sun, saltwater, storms, and service left their mark on every board.
This weathered lumber was shaped by salty air, tropical storms, and sun — forces you might find off the Texas coast. It carries within it the history of a century at sea. Every grain and scar whispers of service, survival, and sacrifice.
The Three Pieces
I created just three items from my portion of the deck wood. These are the only Battleship Texas pieces I will ever have in my shop — once they’re gone, they’re gone. Each includes a signed Certificate of Authenticity from the Battleship Texas Foundation.
Handcrafted from reclaimed deck wood of the Battleship Texas, this platter carries a century of naval history in its grain. A rare piece that blends story, function, and heritage.
USS Texas Charcuterie Board
A hand-turned whiskey topper featuring an inlaid U.S. Navy emblem, crafted from Battleship Texas deck wood. A collectible nod to naval pride and tradition.
USS Texas Whiskey Topper #1 (U.S. Navy)
The second of only two whiskey toppers made from Battleship Texas deck wood, featuring the inlaid U.S. Navy emblem. Each piece is unique, honoring both craftsmanship and naval history.
USS Texas Whiskey Topper #2 (U.S. Navy)
Each of these rare works comes with a signed Certificate of Authenticity issued by the Battleship Texas Foundation. This certificate verifies that the wood was salvaged directly from the ship’s deck during restoration, making your piece a true heirloom of American naval history.
Certificate of Authenticity
Own a Piece of Naval History.
Only three exist, and each carries the story of the Battleship Texas in every grain.
Legacy and Preservation
The Battleship Texas is a National Historic Landmark and the last surviving battleship to serve in both World Wars. By giving this wood new life, these pieces honor her story — and the sailors who served aboard her.
You can learn more about the ship’s preservation and ongoing restoration at the Battleship Texas Foundation website.
USS Texas (BB-35) in action-ready posture during World War II — the source of the very wood now preserved in these handcrafted pieces.”