American Forests’
Historic Tree Program
Across the nation, there are trees that have seen ages come and go monumental events
take place, bearing witness to the lives of people we hold as heroes. These trees have so
much to share with the world – both historically and environmentally – that American
Forests’ Historic Tree Program has cultivated their offspring so that anyone, anywhere can
plant a piece of living history in their own yard. These are what we call Historic Trees.
What is a Historic Tree?
A Historic Tree is a tree connected to famous people, places or events.
American Forests’ Historic Tree Program
American Forests’ Historic Tree Program brings history alive by growing
offspring of trees connected to famous people, places or events and making
them available for community and individual planting. From the last
living tree planted by Johnny Appleseed, to the honey locust that
stood behind Abraham Lincoln as he gave the Gettysburg Address,
our trees connect history and the environment. Planting a tree is an
investment in the future and Historic Trees offers a unique way to
connect our past and our future. You can view the entire collection at
historictrees.org, but here are just a few of what we have to offer:
• Moon Sycamore
(Yes, a tree that actually went to the moon)
• Mount Vernon Red Maple
(From the grounds of George Washington’s own estate)
• Angel Live Oak
(Said to be the oldest living thing east of the Mississippi River)
• Gettysburg Address Honey Locust
(stood yards away from Abraham Lincoln when he gave the Gettysburg Address)
• Johnny Appleseed Apple Tree
(the last known living tree planted by Johnny Appleseed)
Why Should I Want One?
Historic Trees are the ultimate two-for-one deal. On the one hand, you have a historic
item, something that relates to a significant time, place, or person. And the fact that
it is a living thing makes your connection to the past seem all the more real. On the
other hand, you’ve got a tree; something that contributes aesthetically and ecologically
to the world around it. It filters air, cleans water, stores carbon, gives you shade, and a
whole host of other benefits. Though a historic tree has connections to the past, it also
paves the way for a brighter, greener future.
PLANT A HISTORIC TREE TODAY!
Enter your video into DocumenTREE today to win a Historic Trees Grove for your
community. To learn more about Historic Trees please visit historictrees.org.