Witco? restoration.

I picked this up at a yard sale and I have a few questions on restoring it.

I have oiled it up and I am in the process of reassembling it.

The problem is I need to cut two shelves to fit in the bottom part and I am not sure of what kind of wood to use.
I am thinking regular plywood, but not sure on the thickness. Anyone out there have a Witco bar like this and can they tell me what kind of wood is used for the lower shelves?

Also, the pieces were originally held together with pins and staples.
I was thinking of putting in brackets instead (just under the lower shelves.
Good idea or no?

Thanks

Most of the bars do use a cheaper plywood-type wood behind the bar. I'd say 3/4 inch.

The only bars I've seen with brackets are the round-style bars, but I say if it makes it sturdier go for it.

Hope that helps.

Thanks to Happy Bhudda for the info. I have listed it in the marketplace section.

I don't have a table saw so I offered it up "As Is".

http://www.tikicentral.com/viewtopic.php?topic=49723&forum=12&0

Cedar?

for shelves?

since not many will see could use almost anything.