Tree That Owns Itself

In the heart of Athens, Georgia, there stands a tree unlike any other. This is not just any tree, but the legendary Tree That Owns Itself. This white oak tree, with its sprawling branches and storied past, is a local landmark that has captured the imaginations of residents and visitors alike for generations.

The Legend of the Tree

The tale of the Tree That Owns Itself begins with Colonel William Henry Jackson, a man who cherished the oak from his childhood. According to legend, Jackson, who was a professor at the University of Georgia, decided to protect the tree he loved so much by deeding it ownership of itself and the land surrounding it. This unique act of affection is said to have taken place between 1820 and 1832, and the deed purportedly read:

I, W. H. Jackson, of the county of Clarke, of the one part, and the oak tree ... of the county of Clarke, of the other part: Witnesseth, That the said W. H. Jackson for and in consideration of the great affection which he bears said tree, and his great desire to see it protected has conveyed, and by these presents do convey unto the said oak tree entire possession of itself and of all land within eight feet of it on all sides.

While the authenticity of the deed has been debated, with no physical evidence of its existence, the story has become an integral part of local folklore. The tree's claim to ownership might not hold up in a court of law, but it is a beloved legend that the community has embraced wholeheartedly.

The Original Tree

The original Tree That Owns Itself is estimated to have begun its life somewhere between the mid-16th and late 18th centuries. As time passed, it grew into a majestic oak, admired by many and considered one of the most famous trees in the United States. Unfortunately, by the early 20th century, the tree began to show signs of decline. Efforts were made to preserve it, including the installation of new soil and a commemorative tablet around its base in 1906, funded by philanthropist George Foster Peabody.

Despite these efforts, the tree suffered significant damage during an ice storm in 1907, and rot eventually set in. On the evening of October 9, 1942, after a long period of decline, the original tree fell. It was estimated to be between 150 and 400 years old at the time of its collapse.

The Son of the Tree That Owns Itself

The story of the Tree That Owns Itself did not end with the fall of the original oak. In a heartwarming twist, a new tree was grown from one of its acorns. This sapling, referred to as the Son of the Tree That Owns Itself, was transplanted to the same spot in 1946, thanks to the efforts of the Athens Junior Ladies' Garden Club and the local community.

The new tree has thrived in its location, growing to over 50 feet tall as of 2006. It stands as a living testament to the original tree and continues to be a symbol of the unique and whimsical spirit of Athens. The Son of the Tree That Owns Itself is cared for by the local government and the owners of the adjacent property, with the Garden Club serving as its primary advocate.

Visiting the Tree

Located at the corner of South Finley and Dearing Streets, the Tree That Owns Itself is a must-visit for anyone exploring Athens. The tree sits near the crest of a hill in a quiet residential neighborhood, just a stone's throw away from the University of Georgia's North Campus. The portion of Finley Street leading up to the tree is the only remaining cobblestone street in Athens, adding to the charm of the visit.

The tree is surrounded by a retaining wall and an ornamental chain barrier, accentuating its status as a landmark. Visitors are welcome to admire the tree and reflect on its unique story. The site also features two stone tablets, one of which is heavily weathered, while the other appears much newer. Both tablets paraphrase the supposed deed that granted the tree its ownership.

A Symbol of Athens

The Tree That Owns Itself is more than just a tree; it is a symbol of Athens' rich history and the community's love for its local legends. Alongside the University Arch and the Double-Barreled Cannon, it is one of the most recognized and cherished symbols of the city. The tree has been featured in numerous travel guides and publications, including Ripley's Believe It or Not!, bringing its story to a wider audience.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, the Tree That Owns Itself is a fascinating and endearing landmark that captures the essence of Athens. It stands as a reminder of the power of stories and the enduring connection between people and the natural world.

So, the next time you find yourself in Athens, Georgia, make sure to take a stroll down South Finley Street and pay a visit to the Tree That Owns Itself. You'll be stepping into a piece of living history, where legend and reality intertwine beneath the branches of a remarkable oak tree.