106 Discussion of Industries 
woodlots still supply almost 50 per cent of the amount con- 
sumed. The manager of one factory states that for quality 
the New York-grown hardwoods, particularly hickory, have 
never been excelled. Therefore it will be of interest to state 
some of the requirements of the industry in order that the local 
sources of supply may align themselves with the needs. 
Hickory is perhaps the most nearly indispensable wood in 
the United States, and none is known anywhere that will satis- 
factorily take its place for slender handles and certain parts of 
vehicles. Its scarcity is attracting national attention among 
wood users. Other woods should be substituted wherever pos- 
sible and thus reserve the hickory supply for the production of 
such articles as depend entirely upon this species. Many parts 
of vehicles depend entirely upon hickory. Among its impor- 
tant uses are the following: Buggy poles, cross-bars, double- 
trees, neck yokes, rims, shafts, singletrees, wagon gear 
(reaches), and small vehicle spokes. It is very strong, very 
heavy, very hard, and very stiff, and is capable of withstanding 
the severest thrust or twist. White cak and ash are now used 
in many places where hickory was deemed indispensable, 
except that they are used in larger dimension stock where 
resiliency and slenderness are not so important. Wagon 
hounds, felloes, bolsters, and poles are favorite uses for oak 
and ash. Yellow poplar is used along with several other woods 
for wagon boxes, and elm is a favorite material for hubs. 
The form of the raw material required varies so greatly that 
details cannot be given. A few specifications for wagon stock 
will give a general idea of certain grades and dimensions re- 
quired which should be supplied by local woodlots. 
Article. Dimensions required. 
Wagon axles ....... Squares 254” x 3%” to 6” x 7” and 6’ long. 
Wagon bolsters ..... Squares 3” x 4” to 4” x 6” and in lengths 4’ 1” to 
6" . 
Wagon reaches .... Squares 2” to 4” to 214” x 5” and in lengths 8’ 
10” to 14’. 
Wagon poles ...... Squares 214” x 4” tops to 4” x 4” butts and 12’ 
long to 3144” x 3144” tops to 3144” x 5” butts and 
12’ long. 
