A tree with character...and a very long look-back period
Q: What is the oldest living object in Bluffton?
Hint: It’s birth occurred the same decade that Bach composed the Brandenburg Concertos, Russia’s Peter the Great ruled, Jonathan Swift wrote Gulliver’s Travels, and Europe explorers discovered Easter Island.
A: Bluffton’s oldest living thing is probably approaching three centuries in age. It’s the enormous white oak (Quercus alba) in the far section of Maple Grove Cemetery, estimated to have been planted in 1721.
The tree’s age estimate comes from several sources that keep track of prominent Ohio trees. “Monumental Trees” website, states that our white oak is and the seventh thickest tree in Ohio.
The thickness, (circumference, or girth), is 15.3 feet, measured from about 4 and one-half feet above the ground. The ranking is based upon trees registered on the website. There are 39,948 trees registered on the site.
Upon viewing the website, the Bluffton tree is by far the most beautiful of the significant trees featured on the website.
And, concluding on a philosphical note:
"Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth. They do not preach learning and precepts, they preach, undeterred by particulars, the ancient law of life."
- Herman Hesse
Click here for more information about the tree.
Stories Posted This Week
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Friday, August 1, 2025
Thursday, July 31, 2025
- Bluffton University names Dr. J. Alexander Sider as next President
- GLP-1s and weight loss: Impact on muscles
- Check out August 2025 at Bluffton Public Library
- Discovery Days prize drawing results, check your tickets
- Wesley “Wes” Allen Leightner worked for Phillips
- How floundering Cards should deal at deadline
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
- Letter: BOHS work night at the Depot, July 30
- County park district considers name change, invites feedback
- Teen vaccine clinic at Bluffton Middle School, August 18
- State of Ohio expands commercial truck parking at US 30 rest areas
- National Night Out celebration is August 5
- Bluffton council hears neighbor concerns about proposed school practice field
- GROB Systems to host 5-AXIS LIVE! with 21 industry partners on Aug. 5