East Texas Lumber Part 4

Forestry and lumber are prominent industries in Texas, the United States, and around the world to this day. In East Texas, the forest and lumber sector generates nearly $14 billion in revenue annually, which accounts for approximately 60% of the state’s timber production.

When you think of East Texas, it’s still accurate to think of timber, lumber, and forestry. Although it’s not all that the region is known for, it’s still an essential and unique component of the Texas economy.

However, East Texas only accounts for about 5% of the lumber and timber production in the United States. At its peak in the early 20th century, East Texas supplied about one-third of the lumber in the United States. So, given that, is the (relative) decline of East Texas lumber something to lament, celebrate, or merely observe and be aware of?

Well, it’s all of those.

A decline of an industry in a region relative to other places (such as East Texas lumber) or an absolute decline due to a technological change (such as whale oil) is not something to be wished upon any community or individual. Continuity and stability are beneficial for individuals and communities. Disrupting continuity and stability can be painful for individuals and communities, and the loss of communal memory is a partial destruction of civilization itself.

However, disruption also presents an opportunity for growth and change, which is positive. Life is not easy for individuals or communities. And one of the only constants in the human condition is change. Those who manage change through growth are better off. This is a hard truth.

Moreover, as already noted, some of the currently thriving businesses in East Texas have roots in the timber, lumber, and sawmill industry. They are living examples of the importance of adaptation and managing change.

So it seems important to recall the timber boom in East Texas and to consider what happened after the boom, as well as its legacy today. By knowing a bit of history, we can see that the problems we face today are hardly unprecedented, and we can appreciate those who have paved the way for us. We are not alone. And gratitude is always appropriate.