Salvaged from the bottom of the Santee River, our Ancient Bald Cypress is a rare and remarkable tonewood steeped in history. These old-growth trees, long submerged and naturally preserved over centuries, offer a tonal voice as deep and resonant as their origins. No clear-cutting, no deforestation—just nature reclaiming its story through music.

Tonally, Ancient Bald Cypress brings a warm, open sound with a rich low end, balanced mids, and a sweet, articulate high register. Its responsiveness and subtle complexity make it a compelling alternative to more traditional tonewoods, gaining well-deserved attention in the modern luthier and guitar community.

Visually, each piece tells a story—soft, earthy hues with striking grain character, shaped over time by water and sediment. No two sets are ever alike, adding both tonal and aesthetic uniqueness to every instrument we craft.

At Bedell, we’re proud to use this fully sustainable, clear-cut free tonewood—a perfect match for players who care as deeply about their music as they do the planet.