THE LEAFLET

July 1, 2024 /
Christina Hester

Trees of Historical Significance

As we approach July 4th, let’s take a moment to appreciate some of the most historically significant trees in the nation’s capital. These trees not only add beauty to our landscape but also connect us to fascinating stories from the past. Between our Districts’ floral treasures and the rich history that our nation’s capital is known for – it’s interesting to reflect on some of today’s old heritage trees that were once just growing saplings during major events that shaped our city and country’s history.

The National Park Service (NPS) defines “Witness Trees” as silent sentinels of storied landscapes that help connect people, history, and places. They experience important events in American history and remain part of our nation’s cultural legacy. Each of these trees has special characteristics that make it nationally significant.

A few of the recognized Witness trees in the DMV area include:

This southern magnolia sits outside the study window at Frederick Douglass’ home. Photo courtesy Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass’s Southern Magnolias, Magnolia grandiflora

Southern magnolias are common in DC, but the two trees outside Frederick Douglass’ study window on Cedar Hill are exceptional. The trees were planted by Douglass himself as a symbolic gift to his first wife, Anna Murray-Douglass, between 1877 and 1882, according to Ka’mal McClarin, the museum curator at the Frederick Douglass House. Both these trees are in the Witness Tree Protection Program, which is a partnership project between Historic Americans Landscape Survey and National Park Service to identify significant trees of legacy in the region and give them extra care and love. Legacy trees offer a tangible, living connection to events and people in history, an arboreal thread tying us together through time. Southern Magnolias are available through our residential planting program. You can also get up to $100 back for planting them yourself through our tree rebate program.

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Jefferson Elm

In 1935, 333 American elms were planted along the north and south edges of the Mall in four parallel rows, and while many of the original elms planted during that time have died and been replaced – the Jefferson Elm, north of the Smithsonian Freer Gallery, and its fellow survivors recall the time when L’Enfant’s 1791 vision for a tree-lined mall was finally realized.

A beautiful shade tree that once graced cities and towns nationwide, the American elm was devastated by Dutch elm disease from the 1950s and still persists today. Fortunately, disease-resistant strains are now available, and the elm can again be enjoyed for its elegant vase-shaped crown, distinct saw-toothed leaves, yellow fall foliage, and its ability to thrive in tough urban environments. You can get up to $100 back for planting them yourself through our tree rebate program.

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Circle of Willow Oak trees – South of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial

A circle of Willow Oaks was planted in the 1920s encircling a picnic area along the north side, and west end of the Reflecting Pool. Its location is currently south of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. They’ve been there to witness the creation of Constitution Gardens in 1976 and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial progression and addition of statues from 1982 to 2004.

Named for its unusual leaves resembling those of a willow tree, the Willow Oak is one of the toughest urban shade trees around. Its tiny acorns are prized by wildlife, and its strong, straight trunk makes it a welcome tree in any yard. You can get up to $100 back for planting them yourself through our tree rebate program.

Photo Courtesy of NPS

Andrew Jackson Magnolia trees

In 1829 President Andrew Jackson planted Magnolia trees in memory of his late wife Rachel. Magnolias were her favorite trees, so the president brought saplings from his home, the Hermitage in Tennessee, and planted them to remember her. Today, they are the oldest presidentially planted trees on the White House grounds. Poised, stout, and strong, they are such a presence that they are depicted on the back of the old $20 bill.

The Southern Magnolia is an elegant tree and has large fragrant flowers that bloom from March to June, striking seed pods that drop bright red seeds in the fall, and bold, beautiful leaves. Southern magnolias are a much sought-after, durable evergreen tree that grace gardens and yards throughout the District. Southern Magnolias are available through our residential planting program. You can also get up to $100 back for planting them yourself through our tree rebate program.

Photo Courtesy of the Architect of the Capitol.

And an honorable mention for this future witness tree –

To honor the District of Columbia and its residents, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton sponsored the planting of a tulip tree on the U.S. Capitol Grounds. This symbolic act underscores her dedication to recognizing the significance of the capital’s community and its contributions. The tulip tree, known for its vibrant, tulip-shaped flowers and towering presence, serves as a living tribute to the resilience and beauty of DC’s residents. Planted in the heart of the nation’s capital, this tree stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the city and the importance of its representation in the broader narrative of American history. Tulip trees are available through our residential planting program. You can also get up to $100 back for planting them yourself through our tree rebate program.