It's called bois d' arc (Bodark)in Texas. I once made some custom knives and decided to use it for the handle. Beautiful grains and lots of colors.

I tried to make finger grips with a grinder sporting a carborundum stone. It only charred the wood. Had to use a rasp. The only downsides is that it is hard to work with and sometimes splits years later.

I think it would make great structure. I think I would let it cure before I used it.