The renowned oak tree, named Old Glory, situated in Pico Canyon Park, holds a rich history intertwined with environmentalists and preservationists. Its fame dates back two decades when local activists successfully halted its removal for a development project in Stevenson Ranch.
Los Angeles County Supervisor, Kathryn Barger, seeks to acknowledge the significance of Old Glory in the history of Los Angeles County. During the recent Board of Supervisors meeting, Barger presented a motion to designate this centuries-old tree as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark.
In a statement, Barger expressed, “Old Glory holds great importance to our community and deserves the protection that comes with being recognized as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark. This oak symbolizes strength and perseverance. As responsible environmental custodians, we must do everything in our power to preserve community treasures like Old Glory.”
Estimated to be over 400 years old, the towering 70-foot tree faced prospective removal for a housing and urban development project in Pico Canyon. In response, John Quigley and a group of environmentalists launched a campaign to save the tree. Quigley resided in Old Glory for an impressive 71 days in 2002 and 2003 until an agreement was reached to relocate the tree, instead of destroying it.
In March, a reunion was held at Old Glory’s new location in Pico Canyon Park to commemorate the tree’s 20th anniversary of preservation.
Reflecting on the significant moment, Quigley stated, “We are an integral part of nature, originating from nature. That instance with Old Glory felt like the presence of a higher force, bringing together the right individuals to save that tree.”
Barger’s motion directs the Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning to commence the nomination process for designating Old Glory as a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark. The board will vote on the motion during their upcoming meeting on July 11.
Lynne Plambeck, a member of the Newhall Water District Board at the time when Old Glory was targeted for removal and also associated with the Santa Clarita Organization for Planning and the Environment, played a pivotal role in organizing the March reunion.
During the reunion, Quigley returned and climbed Old Glory once again. Members of the Santa Clarita City Council were in attendance, and activists emphasized the tree’s importance to the community.
Plambeck stated in March, “This event raises awareness about the significance of oak trees and highlights the growing understanding of their importance. People from diverse cultures and political backgrounds came together to save this tree.”
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