This gorgeous rustic fireplace mantel is made from an old white oak barn beam and features an original hand-hewn texture on the face and bottom. The ax marks are all original from the 1800s when craftsmen were swinging axes to turn round trees into square logs. It is a true piece of American history. It is remarkable to think about the early settlers built these old buildings so long ago. The top of this mantel has been cut flat to create a nice surface for displaying decorations, family photos, and other items.

These pictures were taken with Mineral Spirits splashed on to simulate a finished color. The actual color is still the original sandy beige shown in the last several pictures. We can finish with our typical Rubio Monocoat finish, or we can use a wax to keep this lighter, natural wood color.

This piece was one of several beams that came from a batch from Red Wing, Minnesota. We really don’t have much information about the original building. However, Red Wing was one of the early cities in Minnesota as it rests on the edge of the Mighty Mississippi river. Steamboats frequently traveled the area on the 1850s. Sawmills were also established early. It is very likely that this piece was originally cut and hewn closer to the mid-1800s, rather than the late-1800s like much of our hand-hewn material.

We can cut this mantel shorter and refinish the ends for an additional for no additional cost.

It can be shipped anywhere in the lower 48 states via FedEx Gnd for $150

About the tag – Shinola Shoe Polishes. This vintage advertisement dates back to the late 1800s — not much after the company was founded in 1877. The brand, as a shoe polish, is now defunct but the brand is now used to sell high-end watches, bicycles, leather goods, clocks, home goods, and jewelry