During the week of Aug. 21-27, the stand of black locust trees surrounding the Roslyn viaduct were cut in preparation for the long anticipated rebuilding of the ageing highway structure.

Black Locust trees were used in 18th and 19th century fence construction due its inherent resistance to rot and insect attack. Members of the Roslyn Preservation Corporation recognized that many of these trees were of the correct size to be used as fence rails and gateposts.

Charles Mass, viaduct project engineer for the New York State Department of Transportation cooperated with the Roslyn Preservation Corporation to "harvest" all suitable black locust trees for future use in fence restoration projects.

Richard Lorentzen, field supervisor for the state transportation department helped to coordinate the project and Michael Kelly of Bohemia Garden Center supervised the cutting of the trees.

John Collins, president of the Roslyn Preservation Corporation commented, "Although it is sad to see so many trees being removed for the viaduct project, it is heartening to know that a large number of them will be used for restoration projects in the Village."

One project Collins hopes to complete using the locust logs is the construction of a "well-sweep" above the well at the Van Nostrand-Starkins House Museum. In addition to being an authentic feature to the site, the reconstructed well sweep will help illustrate how a well was used in 18th century life.