Mortise and Tenon joints

(Courtesy of Wikipedia.com)

Mortise and tenon joints were used by framers prior to the availability of metal fasteners (nails, bolts, etc.) One of the marks of an old barn is the presence of mortise and tenon joints to secure the timbers together. This is vastly preferable (for those of us who love old timber frame structures) due to the elegance, simplicity and craftsmanship they demonstrate. No nails or screws were used to construct these buildings: mortise and tenon joints are held together with a hand-carved hardwood peg. For more information on mortise and tenon joints, visit Wikipedia HERE.