An Overview of Butcher Block!
While most associate the term butcher block with a cutting board, it actually refers to a construction method. Wood is glued together and subjected to great pressure. This method was developed late in the nineteenth century and the original intent was indeed to produce a sanitary surface for use by butchers. Up until that time, they cut meat on tree slabs, which was neither sanitary nor safe since they were not very stable.
Two primary construction methods are used. One creates what is called the end grain block, with the wood grain set perpendicular to the top. End grain styles help knives stay sharper and are more difficult to nick or gouge. Edge grain styles are not as expensive, but are less durable. They are manufactured with the grain of the wood set parallel to the surface.
Here you can have a look of Butcher Block information.