Scott the guy I bought the bench from got it in Mexico. He goes to Mexico and brings back some unique stuff. He said that a lot of benches in Mexico sit really close to the ground...so he added the railroad tie looking boards to the bottom to make it sit higher. I am not sure about the wood, but it is really heavy and appears very old. I will ask Alberto because he will know. I am trying to purposely buy heavy as hell porch furniture because I hope it might discourage some thieves because of how much work it would be to steal. I may also use some iron anchors. These log chairs a local lady made are also very heavy...and not very expensive.
