TxMoon, I believe he was from Victoria, Tx, but dont quote me on that. I have an email out requesting more information about him in the form of an article by B R Hughes. It should be here soon and I'll pass it on.
Tom, The wood hardener is by Minwax and it comes in a can. About $10. I apply it by literally pouring it on the material or by cotton ball liberally soaked with it. You have to pretty well flood the material so it can soak as deep as possible before setting up. It is acetone based, so it's fast setting. Let it sit for the prescribed time and sand and apply wax or your favorite finish. Lin