[rotorwrench]

I would use hickory for Model T wood spoke wheels. Ash is the common framing wood but hickory is the best for spokes.

I went to school with a fellow that is a hardwood broker. He has made a very good living from the hardwood trade. These trees are getting more valuable every year. Folks that raise them take good care of their assets but it tends to be a multi-generational trade for families involved.