Abstract: A tapered support member for disparate articles is assembled from elongated, strip-like sections that form an open frame when joined by a plurality of separator fasteners which progressively space the sections further apart along the member's longitudinal axis. The frame is closed by tapered, wedge-shaped fairing inserts adapted to engage slots formed along each longitudinal edge of the strip-like sections; and a cap and base are positioned accordingly to complete the construction of the support member. Alternatively a non-tapered support structure may be constructed when the separator-fasteners space the sections equally along the entire longitudinal axis of the member. Each component part of the support member is structured so that extrusion techniques can be used to produce the component parts.