By Honey Casey
ZAVALLA — When visitors walk the storied decks of the USS Constitution — America’s oldest commissioned warship, known proudly as “Old Ironsides” — few realize they are treading upon the enduring legacy of Zavalla, Texas.
In 1930, the USS Constitution underwent a major restoration after more than 130 years at sea. Among the most critical needs was replacing the ship’s original decking, first laid in 1794. For this monumental task, timber harvested from the vast virgin long leaf pine forests near Zavalla was selected for its unmatched strength and durability.
The Angelina County Lumber Company, operating in the heart of East Texas, cut and milled the lumber to exacting standards. According to a Lufkin Daily News article dated February 29, 1932, two train carloads of the finest long leaf yellow pine — each beam measuring 3 inches by 5 inches by 26 feet — were shipped from Keltys, Texas, to Portland, Oregon. The lumber, sold through Long Leaf, Inc. of New Orleans, was of the highest quality: clear, straight-grained, and free from knots, exactly what was needed to restore a national treasure.
Once in Portland, the Zavalla pine was fitted to replace the worn decks of “Old Ironsides,” preserving the ship’s proud heritage for future generations.
The USS Constitution, renewed with Zavalla pine, remains a treasured symbol of American resilience and naval tradition. Today, visitors to Boston can still walk the decks of “Old Ironsides” — decks built from the mighty forests once standing near Zavalla.
While Zavalla’s contributions also extended to the Galveston Seawall — where sandstone from the Blue Hole Ranch, known as Kyle’s Quarry, was used to complete the massive storm barrier — it is the town’s connection to “Old Ironsides” that remains one of its most remarkable and lasting achievements.
Zavalla’s contributions are a testament to the spirit and significance of small communities in America’s story. Whether through stone shielding a coastal city or timber preserving a national treasure, Zavalla has proven that even the smallest places can leave the largest legacies.
As Zavalla celebrates its 125th anniversary this summer, we honor the enduring role our town has played in shaping the past — and inspiring the future.
Copyright 2025, The Zavalla Eagle
