Tan Bark

 

The sources discuss tan bark in the context of tanning operations and as a source of revenue for people in the region.

Here's a breakdown of the information regarding tan bark:

• Tanning Industry:
  • Tan bark was a key raw material for tanneries.
  • A large steam tannery was established on the property of I. M. Arbogast near Durbin.
  • The United States Leather Company was also erecting a large tannery.
  • The Greenbrier Tannery in Marlinton used both tanbark and extract in its operations.
  • Colonel Tuly carried on the tanning business extensively.
• Types of Bark:
  • Chestnut oak bark was contracted for at $7.00 per cord.
• Economic Significance:
  • Tan bark was a significant source of revenue for the local population.
  • People could potentially realize a profit of $4.00 to $4.50 per cord by selling tan bark.
  • The establishment of tanning plants aimed to secure a vast bark supply.
• Logistics:
  • Teams going to the tannery for freight could also transport bark with "slight inconvenience".
  • Hundreds of tons of bark were stacked, ready for use at the tannery being erected by the United States Leather Company.
• Other Details:
  • The text mentions that the U.S. Tannery people secured the right to the property from Mr. Arbogast, a mile beyond Travelers Impose.
  • A land development company, of which former county-man E. M. Arbogast was a member, owned the land.
  • The Greenbrier Tannery operated in Marlinton since about 1901, except for a period after the original plant burned. The new tannery was built on the original site.

The sources highlight how the abundance of tan bark in the area fueled the local tanning industry, creating both employment opportunities and revenue for the community.