On: Boston's subway system replacing 1890s-era wooden catenary system

[bluGill]

It could be. A lot of wood has been around for longer than that. Wood is easier to damage so I expect some has been replaced over the years, but there is no reason to think it wouldn't last in that application.

[jeffwask → bluGill]

Yeah, I watch mine exploration videos and it's shocking how well wood in a dry and stable environment will last.

[paleotrope → jeffwask]

I wouldn't exactly call the environment on the green line as dry, especially in the summers.