The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted on Tuesday to advance a proposal designating a magnificent oak tree known as Old Glory, located in Stevenson Ranch, as a historic landmark.
Over 20 years ago, the tree, situated in Pico Canyon Park, captured the public’s attention when activists successfully prevented its destruction for a residential development project in Stevenson Ranch.
Expressing her satisfaction with the decision, Supervisor Kathryn Barger stated, “I am delighted that we are taking steps to safeguard and preserve Old Glory. This extraordinary tree holds great significance for the local community and deserves recognition on a wider scale.”
Barger continued, “Old Glory has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and strength. Its own history is a testament to these qualities, having survived a monumental relocation of a quarter mile in 2004. In fact, it holds a prestigious record in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest tree ever transplanted. Weighing a staggering 415 tons, this marvel of nature is truly awe-inspiring. By designating Old Glory as a historic landmark, we ensure that future generations can experience the wonder and inspiration this ancient oak tree provides.”
Standing at approximately 70 feet tall, this oak tree is estimated to be over 400 years old. When local plans emerged to remove the tree in order to make way for a housing and urban development project in Pico Canyon, John Quigley and a group of environmentalists rallied to save it. In an act of protest and perseverance, Quigley even resided in the tree for 71 days between 2002 and 2003. Eventually, an agreement was reached to relocate Old Glory instead of destroying it.
In March, a special reunion took place at the new location of Old Glory in Pico Canyon Park, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the tree’s rescue.
Reflecting on the significance of that moment, Quigley shared, “We are an inseparable part of nature, originating from it. That encounter with Old Glory felt like a divine force bringing together all the right individuals to save that tree.”
Supervisor Barger’s proposal directs the director of the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning to begin the nomination process for Old Glory as an official Los Angeles County Historic Landmark.
Lynne Plambeck, a member of the Newhall Water District Board at the time when Old Glory faced removal, played a crucial role in organizing the March reunion and launching the campaign advocating for the oak tree’s designation as a historical landmark, representing the Santa Clarita Organization for Planning and the Environment.
During the reunion, Quigley returned and climbed the tree once again. Members of the Santa Clarita City Council attended the event, and activists emphasized the tree’s significance to the community.
Plambeck underscored the importance of raising awareness about the value of oak trees and remarked, “People are beginning to comprehend the significance of these majestic trees. People from diverse cultures and political backgrounds came together to save this tree.”
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