Old Glory, the oak tree located in Pico Canyon Park, has a rich history intertwined with environmentalists and preservationists. Its prominence increased two decades ago when local activists successfully fought to prevent its removal for a development project in Stevenson Ranch.
Kathryn Barger, a Los Angeles County Supervisor, recognizes the significance of Old Glory and seeks to formally acknowledge its importance in the history of Los Angeles County. During the recent Board of Supervisors meeting, Barger introduced a motion to designate this centuries-old tree as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark.
Barger stated, “Old Glory holds great meaning for the community and deserves the protection and recognition that comes with being designated as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark. This oak tree symbolizes strength and resilience, and it is crucial that we take every possible step to preserve community assets such as Old Glory. As responsible environmental stewards, we must embrace this responsibility wholeheartedly.”
Believed to be over 400 years old, this 70-foot tree garnered attention when plans emerged to remove it for a housing and urban development project in Pico Canyon. In response, John Quigley and a group of dedicated environmentalists launched a campaign to save the tree. Their efforts led to an agreement to relocate Old Glory rather than destroy it, prompting Quigley to reside in the tree for 71 days in 2002 and 2003.
In March, a reunion took place at Old Glory’s new location in Pico Canyon Park to commemorate the 20th anniversary of its rescue.
Quigley expressed his deep connection to nature during the event, stating, “We are closely tied to nature; it is our origin. The saving of Old Glory was a moment where it felt like a divine force brought together the right individuals to protect that tree.”
Barger’s motion instructs the Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning to initiate the nomination process for Old Glory as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark. The board will vote on this motion during its upcoming meeting on July 11.
Lynne Plambeck, who was a member of the Newhall Water District Board and part of the Santa Clarita Organization for Planning and the Environment when Old Glory faced removal, played a crucial role in organizing the reunion in March.
During the event, Quigley once again ascended the tree, and members of the Santa Clarita City Council and activists expressed their appreciation for the tree’s significance to the local community.
Plambeck emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the value of oak trees, remarking, “People are beginning to understand the significance of oak trees. The coming together of individuals from various cultures and political perspectives to save this tree is a testament to the power of unity.”
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