James-- I see that you are in St. Louis. According to my mouldy textbooks from my former life as a plant ecologist, both species occur is Mo, chiefly in "rich woods and swamps". I would really check with a few local woodlot owners. Most of what is around is probably cut up for firewood--its extreme density makes it wonderful for this purpose (and I suspect that it would also make it attractive for your intended purpose). You should be able to get several good turning blanks out of even a smallish tree. Have you considered other locally available small-market species? I believe Osage-orange (_Maclura_ _pomifera_, of the Mulberry family) grows in your part of the world, and is likewise extremely hard and dense, and I have heard, beautifully colored and figured. Regards Tim Keenan Noteworthy Piano Service Terrace BC
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