Timberrr!: A History of Logging in New England - Mary M. Cowan '61

Timberrr! A History of Logging in New England (Second Edition) is a richly illustrated nonfiction book for readers ages 8 to 12. Spanning four centuries, it explores the true story of how logging shaped the economy, culture, and forests of New England—from colonial mast cutting to the rise of sawmills and modern sustainable forestry.

Young readers will discover how towering white pines became prized for their use as ship masts, how brave lumberjacks rode logs down rushing rivers, and how forestry practices have evolved over time. Along the way, they’ll meet the people who worked in the woods—loggers, river drivers, teamsters, fire lookouts, and early forest managers.

This updated second edition features:

• Historic photographs and illustrations
• First-hand accounts and rare family images
• A detailed glossary, timeline, and regional map
• Topics on forest conservation and climate change

Each chapter stands on its own, making the book flexible for classroom use, homeschool programs, or independent reading. It supports learning in US history, environmental science, and social studies.

Perfect for educators, parents, librarians, and curious kids, Timberrr! brings American logging history to life with vivid storytelling and engaging visuals. It’s a powerful introduction to our enduring relationship with forests—past and present.