The navy had a live oak preserve and nursery.  They grew and protected the oaks that were essential for ship building.  The area is now part of theGulfIslandnational seashore so we checked it out.  They actually chose specific parts of the tree for various ship fame components to maximize strength.  “Canon balls bounced off” they say.  No wonder they were so protective of these great trees.  Hopefully we will continue to be even without the need for wooden ships!