Among the lush urban canopy that stretches across Dallas the skyline, one Texas tree has stood the test of time and grown to become a symbol of the city’s resilience and growth. This large historic tree is known as the Centennial Tree. It has stood tall, proud, and resiliently through many of both Texas’ and America’s most historical moments.
This green giant stands in Reverchon Park, proudly displaying its grandeur and bearing witness to our beloved city’s historical journey. This tree has long been a part of our city’s past and thanks to historic preservation, many decades to come! It is a regular stop for many locals and visitors exploring our beautiful city.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Centennial Tree is a Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa), a species known for its long lifespan and ability to withstand adverse conditions. Bur Oaks can live for hundreds of years, and our Centennial Tree is no exception to that. In fact it is estimated that this historic tree is over 250 years. That means that this magnificent tree was already a growing sapling when the United States declared its independence. It has literally seen important moments in history of our country unfold around it. It also means that it has many decades and potentially centuries still to grow. This makes it even more vital to preserve these majestic trees around North Texas.
Centennial Celebrations
Believe it or not, the tree was officially named the Centennial Tree in 1936, marking Texas’s 100th anniversary of independence from Mexico. The grand celebration held at the tree site brought together thousands of people, making the tree an enduring symbol of the city’s collective memory. This celebration went down in local history and is remembered to this day. While there are not annual celebrations honoring this moment, each and every day people continue to visit to stand in its shade and under its branches. A magical way to connect with the past, present, and future through local nature.
Characteristics
As a Bur Oak, the Centennial Tree is quite large, standing at approximately 70 feet tall, with a trunk circumference of around 16 feet. This means it is one of the largest Bur Oaks in all of Dallas County. Its sprawling branches provide a wide canopy that serves as a natural haven for various birds and local wildlife. It also welcomes visitors from both locally and afar.
The Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is a remarkable species of white oak native to North America. It is distinguishable by its broad, lobed leaves and unique acorns. These acorns have a fringed, bur-like cap, hence its name. Bur Oaks are an incredible resilient tree that is known for its ability to adapt to a variety of habitats and can thrive in various soil types. In fact, it has been found growing in sandy, clay, and limestone-based soils. This versatility, coupled with their tolerance to extremes of drought and cold, makes them an incredibly hardy species.
Bur Oaks might be slow-growing but can eventually reach impressive heights, often exceeding 100 feet. They are also recognized for their equally impressive canopy spread. A characteristic feature of this oak is its thick, corky bark, which provides the tree with exceptional fire resistance. Bur Oaks play a significant ecological role in their native environments, providing shelter and food for numerous birds and mammals, and their acorns are particularly favored by many local wildlife species.
Preservation Efforts
As Dallas’ urban development began to encroached upon the areas’ green spaces, the Centennial Tree’s existence became a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation. The City of Dallas, along with several local environmental organizations, has taken steps to ensure its preservation as well as the preservation of many other local trees.
In 2015, the Centennial Tree was officially designated as a Historic Tree under the Dallas Historic Tree Preservation Program. This status provides it with protection from removal or injury, ensuring it continues to grace Dallas’s skyline for generations to come. This cause has spread to other areas of North Texas as more and more historical trees are being protected by their respective local governments.
A Living Witness
Today, the Centennial Tree is more than just a tree. It is a living testament to Dallas’s past, present, and future. As residents and visitors rest under its vast canopy, the Centennial Tree stands as a symbol of resilience, offering a leafy reminder of the enduring strength of nature amidst a bustling urban landscape. Dallas has changed a lot in the last 250 years, however, many things also haven’t. Texans’ love for the outdoors and their beautiful environment around us is one of those! This is why ensuring the longevity of these ancient trees is vital to continuing Texas’ living history!
Many of us in the Dallas and Fort Worth area have historical trees in our yards. These wondrous gifts for mother nature are worth protecting and preserving, regardless of where they are. We need to protect them in our parks, but also our yards! To learn more about local Burr Oaks and their care, please feel free to reach out to talk with Tree Tech’s professional arborist, Micah!
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