Opening a time capsule

[asprince]

I bought a large lot of equipment from the family of a former beekeeper. The equipment has been stored in a barn for 16 years. Wax moths have destroyed some, but most honey supers look like they did when he put them away awaiting for the next year. He must have used Certan on some. Lots of new or refurbished brood chambers and honey supers with frames and foundation were stacked and ready to be put into service. He dated everything. All the hive bodies and all frames are dated and signed when they were put into service. Some were even signed by his grandson. The mice, spiders and dirt dobbers have moved into some and all are covered with a thick coat of dust.

He was a very detailed and creative man! As I clean and repaint this equipment, I feel honored to carry on for him.

Steve

[contactme_11]

Cool. Was there a lot of stuff?

[asprince]

Yes, Lots of stuff and lots of junk. Five pickup truck loads.

I have a question. The drawn comb looks good (light in color) but it is brittle. Will it be ok to use?

Steve

[Irwin]

Yes all new comb is brittle

[Kathyp]

if you have doubts about it, cut it out except for a small bit at the top-a couple of rows.  the bees will use that as a guide and rebuild.

[RayMarler]

Wax moths are after the protein in pollen and pupa casings that are in the cells, they are not after the wax. Sounds like some of those you acquired were stored honey supers, combs that were only used for honey and never had any brood or pollen in them. They will store quite nicely without worry about wax moths. Brood combs though, are a different matter, and need to be stored in such a manner as to guard against wax moths.

[HAB]

Your one lucky guy!!  Been in a similar position and know how much fun your having. :bee: :bee: :bee:

[contactme_11]

I have a question. The drawn comb looks good (light in color) but it is brittle. Will it be ok to use?

Steve

When my grandfather died he left me some boxes with old brittle comb like that. I used it, the bees didn't seem to care they cleaned it up and rebuilt it.

[Rodni73]

<<I feel honored to carry on for him. >>

The Lord works in myseterious ways!

[asprince]

Thanks, I am glad to hear the wax will be ok even though it is 16 years old. Out of the 100 supers of drawn comb, 50 to 60 will be usable.

Steve

[contactme_11]

Thanks, I am glad to hear the wax will be ok even though it is 16 years old. Out of the 100 supers of drawn comb, 50 to 60 will be usable.

Steve

It probably won't be the greatest but I'm sure it will be fine.