Greenwood is a multifaceted term most commonly referring to historic urban neighborhoods, lush ecological forest preserves, and a growing movement toward sustainable, “green” cemetery burials. In this comprehensive guide, you will explore the rich historical legacy of the Greenwood District in Tulsa, the environmental significance of ancient greenwood forests, and the practicalities of modern greenwood woodworking and eco-friendly forestry. Whether you are researching the “Black Wall Street” legacy or looking for the best hiking trails in regional Greenwood parks, this resource provides the deep, factual context necessary to understand the cultural and natural impact of these locations.
The Legacy of Tulsa’s Greenwood
The Greenwood District in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was one of the most prominent concentrations of African American businesses and wealth in the United States during the early 20th century. Known globally as “Black Wall Street,” the area flourished with its own banks, hotels, and luxury shops until the tragic Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921.
Today, the district serves as a center for remembrance and reconciliation, featuring the Greenwood Rising history center and the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park. Visitors can walk the historic bricks of Greenwood Avenue to see original buildings that were rebuilt following the 1921 destruction.
Greenwood as an Ecological Term
In forestry and ecology, “greenwood” refers to wood that has been recently cut and has not had an opportunity to season or dry by evaporation of the internal moisture. This type of timber is prized by traditional craftsmen for its pliability and ease of carving compared to kiln-dried lumber.
Ecologically, greenwood environments represent vibrant, living forests that provide essential carbon sequestration and habitat biodiversity. These zones are critical for maintaining local water tables and supporting a wide variety of indigenous flora and fauna.
Ancient Greenwood Traditions
The concept of the “Greenwood” is deeply rooted in English folklore, often depicted as a place of freedom and refuge outside the reach of oppressive laws. Most famously associated with the legends of Robin Hood, the greenwood symbolizes a wild, untamed space where nature reigns supreme.
Historically, these areas were managed through “coppicing,” a traditional method where trees are cut down to ground level to stimulate growth. This ensured a sustainable supply of flexible greenwood for building fences, tool handles, and thatched roof supports.
Modern Greenwood Woodworking
Greenwood woodworking is a craft that utilizes unseasoned timber to create furniture, spoons, and bowls using hand tools like drawknives and pole lathes. Because the wood is soft and easy to work, it allows for intricate designs that become incredibly strong once the wood naturally dries and shrinks around joints.
This practice has seen a massive resurgence in the 21st century as a sustainable alternative to industrial furniture making. Enthusiasts often source “found” wood from fallen storm debris or local arborists, reducing the carbon footprint associated with timber transport.
Green-Wood Cemetery: Brooklyn’s Icon
The Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York, founded in 1838, is a National Historic Landmark famous for its rolling hills, glacial ponds, and Victorian monuments. It was one of the first rural cemeteries in America and actually inspired the creation of public parks like Central Park.
Spanning 478 acres, it serves as an arboretum and a sanctuary for birdwatchers, housing over 7,000 trees. It remains an active burial ground that integrates historical preservation with modern ecological land management.
Greenwood in Urban Planning
Urban “Greenwood” initiatives focus on increasing the tree canopy in metropolitan areas to combat the “urban heat island” effect. By planting native hardwood species, cities can reduce surface temperatures by up to 10 degrees during peak summer months.
These projects often prioritize disenfranchised neighborhoods where historical “redlining” led to a lack of green space. Modern urban greenwoods improve air quality, enhance mental health for residents, and manage stormwater runoff effectively.
The Science of Wood Moisture
The moisture content in greenwood can often exceed 100% of its dry weight, meaning the water weighs more than the wood fibers themselves. As the wood dries to its equilibrium moisture content (usually 6-12%), it undergoes significant physical changes including shrinking and checking.
Understanding the cellular structure of greenwood is vital for architects and builders to prevent structural failure. Specialized kilns or long-term air-drying processes are used to stabilize the wood before it is used in permanent construction.
Sustainable Greenwood Forestry
Sustainable forestry practices ensure that the harvesting of greenwood does not deplete the forest’s ability to regenerate. Techniques like selective logging and “continuous cover” forestry allow for timber extraction while maintaining the ecological integrity of the canopy.
Certified greenwood products often carry the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) label, indicating the wood was harvested ethically. This helps protect endangered species and ensures that the forest remains a “carbon sink” for future generations.
Greenwood Districts Across America
While Tulsa is the most famous, several other “Greenwood” neighborhoods exist across the U.S., including those in Seattle, Chicago, and Mississippi. Each area carries a unique local history, often tied to 20th-century industrial booms or residential expansions.
Greenwood, Mississippi, for example, is known as the “Cotton Capital of the World” and features a preserved historic downtown. Meanwhile, Greenwood in Seattle is a trendy residential hub known for its annual car show and vibrant arts scene.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours and Access
Most historic Greenwood districts, such as the one in Tulsa, are public neighborhoods accessible 24/7. However, specific museums like Greenwood Rising typically operate Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Costs and Pricing
- Greenwood Rising (Tulsa): Approximately $15 for adults; discounts for seniors and students.
- Green-Wood Cemetery (Brooklyn): Free entry for walking; guided trolley tours range from $20-$30.
- National Parks/Forests: Most “Greenwood” designated parks have a vehicle entry fee of $5-$10 or are free for pedestrians.
How to Get There
- Tulsa: Located just north of downtown; easily accessible via I-244 or local transit buses.
- Brooklyn: Take the ‘R’ subway train to 25th Street station, which is one block from the main Gothic arch entrance.
- Rural Forests: Most greenwood preserves require a private vehicle, though some in the UK are accessible via regional rail links.
Tips for Visitors
Wear comfortable walking shoes as these areas often involve significant pedestrian travel over uneven terrain. In ecological preserves, always follow “Leave No Trace” principles to protect the “greenwood” environment for others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Tulsa Greenwood District? The district was a premier example of African American economic success, housing over 600 businesses before its destruction in 1921. It remains a symbol of resilience and the ongoing struggle for racial justice and economic equity in America.
Can you burn greenwood in a fireplace? It is highly discouraged to burn greenwood because the high moisture content causes it to smoke excessively and produce creosote. Creosote buildup in chimneys is a primary cause of house fires; wood should be seasoned for at least six months.
Is Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn a park? While it functions as a public green space and arboretum, it is primarily a private, active cemetery. Visitors are welcome for quiet recreation, birdwatching, and tours, but must respect the nature of the site as a place of rest.
What is greenwood furniture? This is furniture made from wood that hasn’t been dried, often using techniques like “shrink-and-swell” joinery. As the wet wood of a chair leg dries around a pre-dried rung, it creates a mechanical bond so tight it requires no glue.
How do I identify a greenwood forest? A greenwood forest is characterized by high humidity, a dense canopy of broadleaf trees, and a lush understory. These forests stay green longer into the autumn than drier upland forests due to their proximity to water sources.
What trees are best for greenwood carving? Softwoods and certain hardwoods like Birch, Alder, Lime (Linden), and Sycamore are preferred. These species have a consistent grain structure that is easy to slice with a sharp knife while the wood is still saturated.
Who founded the Greenwood District? O.W. Gurley, a wealthy African American landowner, purchased 40 acres of land in Tulsa in 1906 and designated it to be sold only to other African Americans, sparking the district’s growth.
Are there guided tours of Greenwood, Tulsa? Yes, several local organizations offer walking tours that cover the history of Black Wall Street, the 1921 massacre, and the modern revitalization of the area.
What is a greenwood “bodger”? A bodger is a traditional itinerant woodworker who worked in the forest to turn chair legs on a pole lathe. This historical profession is the foundation of many modern greenwood woodworking techniques.
Is Greenwood, Indiana, related to the Tulsa district? No, Greenwood, Indiana, is a separate city south of Indianapolis named after early settler families and its lush landscape; it does not share the same historical “Black Wall Street” origin.
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