Hello group:
I've gotten a lot of good suggestions. Hand planers, saws, etc. - all good suggestions. I don't have a lot of woodworking tools but as suggested I can rent, or even borrow, as long as I know the correct tool to get. Even the idea of building up the posts from smaller lumber sounds good. I also like the idea of looking into a local woodworking club, or perhaps even a community college. As this is an old house I'm trying to duplicate the appearance of the original posts as much as possible so as to keep things looking correct. This as much a restoration as it is a repair. I think I now have a good idea of what direction I need to go in.
Thanks again for all the suggestions. You've all been very helpful.