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Sub-dividing the hewn squared piece.

The next step involves sub-dividing the piece by sawing. In areas where water power was available, sawmills were in use (Fig. 1). In south Louisiana a saw called a Pit saw was used. This tool, merely a large stiff bladed ripping saw, was "powered" by two men. (Fig. 2)

The wood is sawn lengthwise, called ripping in carpentry.

The individual pieces are cut according to the size required in the building. The chart below (Fig. 3) describes how I belive each size and cut is determined.

A water powered sawmill, called an up and down saw. The blade is a pit saw mounted in a frame. (Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution)

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