Pecan Hall Red Oak
Saved from a dance studio demo, Pecan Hall Red Oak begins its next chapter at Salt Shaker Woodworks.
The Story
Once again, it was my friend and neighbor, Journeyman Bladesmith Nate Grant — known as “Tuna” of Made by Tuna, and a Project Manager for a construction company — who gave me a call about some wood he thought I might be interested in. This time, he was overseeing a renovation at Alta Vista College in San Antonio, Texas.
They were gutting what had been a dance studio so the college could repurpose the space, and in the process they pulled out 2x12 boards that ran around the entire room — with 2-inch handrails mounted on them. The best part? Every single board was red oak including the handrails! My response to Nate was a robust, “Hell yeah!” I hooked up my trailer, drove to the college, and rescued the whole lot.
If I hadn’t, all that beautiful oak would have gone straight into a dumpster. Instead, it came into my shop — and that’s the heart of reclaimed woodworking for me: stepping in before good wood is lost, and giving it the chance to carry its story forward in new hands.
About the Tree
Red Oak (Quercus shumardii and related species) is one of the most recognizable hardwoods in North America. In Texas landscapes, it’s known for its tall, straight trunk and broad canopy that bursts into brilliant red each fall — a show of color that gives the tree its name. Mature specimens can reach 60 to 80 feet in height, offering both shade in summer and spectacle in autumn.
Admired in neighborhoods, parks, and campuses alike, Red Oak is a reminder of strength and beauty combined. Its sturdy branches and vibrant seasonal display make it a favorite across the state, valued both as a living landmark and for the remarkable wood it provides.
The tree shown here is simply an example of the species — not the exact source of the reclaimed boards from Alta Vista College.
About the Wood
Red Oak has long been one of the most trusted hardwoods in North America. Its heartwood ranges from light to medium brown with a reddish cast, while its open, straight grain gives it a bold and unmistakable look. The wide rays and coarse texture make it instantly recognizable — a wood that doesn’t whisper but speaks with presence.
In the shop, Red Oak is strong, reliable, and versatile. It machines cleanly, holds joinery well, and takes both stain and finish in a way that highlights its natural warmth. For generations it has been used in furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and architectural trim — pieces meant to last.
Why It Matters
Every board of Red Oak saved from that renovation carries more than strength and grain — it carries the fact that it was nearly lost. What was headed for the dumpster is now reclaimed, ready to serve again in pieces built to last.
To me, that’s what reclaimed woodworking is about: stepping in before good wood is wasted, honoring both the life of the tree and the story of its rescue, and giving it a chance to carry forward in new hands. Shown here are some of the Red Oak boards pulled from Pecan Hall before they could be discarded.
Made From Pecan Hall Red Oak
Herringbone pattern cutting board — Red Oak with accent woods. This piece has found a home.
Small Charcuterie Board — Red Oak with Padauk accents. Available now.
Herringbone pattern cutting board — Red Oak with Mesquite and Yellowheart accents. Available now.
The pieces above — a small charcuterie board and a herringbone cutting board — are available now and linked directly to their product pages, ready to claim today. Another herringbone board has already found a home, but more creations in this reclaimed Red Oak will continue to carry the story forward.
You can also explore the full Salt Shaker Woodworks shop to see what else is available, or request a custom piece — from boards to larger projects — and I’ll work with you to create something that’s just right..