Briefly reviews several nondestructive methods of assessing the condition of large wooden objects, and explains why x-radiography and the 65 Pilodyn were selected for the in situ evaluation of the condition of the Ninstints Totem Poles of western red cedar (thya plicata). The development and theoretical basis of the radiographic procedure are explained as well as the calibration of all techniques. This procedure involves the quantitative interpretation of the radiographic images, and also requires an understanding of the moisture distribution in standing poles. The technique allows the bulk density of wood to be estimated. The paper concludes that most of the poles were structurally sound at the base, and that the Pilodyn and radiographic methods complemented each other to give a more complete analysis.