Over 200 years ago the Spanish created a mission on Palau. Surrounding their buildings they established a grove of Cuban Mahogany, Swietenia mahagoni, the "Wood of Kings". Swietenia mahagoni is the wood that planked the ships of the Spanish Armada. Thomas Sheraton, Thomas Chippendale, and Duncan Phyfe chose Cuban Mahogany for their furniture. It has been among the most prized and valuable timbers since the late 16th century.