Hackamatack is a softwood tree used mostly for it's roots. These were used for knees to reinforce the decks of ships. It was decided to use hackamatack for the entire schooner, except for the keel. Vessels built of hackamatack have lasted 100 years. The ribs of the "Janet May" would use the shape of the roots to add strength to her framework. Sixty knees were used in her construction. A total of 30,000 feet (60 cords) of wood went into her hull and deck.