Holding On To History: Mahogany Trees

With such a grand presence and stance, mahogany trees have been around and its timber exploited since the prehistoric times by the indigenous people of the Caribbean. The origin of the name of this spectacular tree is uncertain, however it is believed by many to be a corruption 'm'oganwo the name used by the Yoruba and Ibo people of West Africa to describe trees of the genus which are closely related to mahogany. In in the earlier days, mahogany would be used to make tools, instruments and canoes. As the British moved into Barbados and the Caribbean, the timber was primarily used to make beautiful furniture pieces. Because mahogany darkens and becomes more valuable over time, much of this furniture is now very dear and prized among avid antique collectors.

The natural dispersal of mahogany seeds is very interesting and rather unique. The seeds are stored in a pod (see above) and as the pod matures, it develops pressure and cracks. Once the pod cracks the seeds - which are shaped similar to helicopter propellers - they shoot out and the wind carries them (imagine little propeller like seeds flying through the air) to many locations where they land. Unfortunately this natural dispersal has become far too slow for the rate at which mahogany tress are being imposed upon and negatively exploited. The number of these trees have greatly lessened over the past two decades and we severely hope that locals recognize their beauty and magnificence and as a result resort from damaging them.

Kimberly and Melanie*