historical logging industry

The historical logging industry involved harvesting forests for timber to supply construction, fuel, and manufacturing needs, especially before modern machinery. Early logging relied on manual tools like axes and saws, with wood transported via rivers or horse-drawn carts. As demand grew, industries introduced trains, steam engines, and later motor vehicles for more efficient logging and transportation. This industry significantly shaped economic development, especially in forest-rich regions, but also led to deforestation, habitat loss, and ecological concerns. Over time, regulations and sustainable practices emerged to balance resource use with conservation efforts.