Battered and beaten, these old hive boxes have been set aside in favor of newer, stronger wood. Like the creased visages of old men, their weather-worn faces are a testament to years of service, housing and protecting the vibrant yet fragile organism that is the honey bee colony.

Many of these boxes are destined for the burn pile, but some have useful life remaining; after patching and painting, and in some cases downsizing, they will once again be pressed into service.

Photo by Eugene Makovec