A 260-year-old live oak tree in Lecanto, Citrus County, has stood watch since before the nation’s founding, offering a unique perspective on the people, places and events that shaped the community. The tree, estimated to have first taken root around 1764, has seen the establishment of Citrus County and the evolution of the surrounding area.
The tree is located on the property of a restored historic home now operated as a vacation rental. Melissa Walker, executive director of the Key Training Center, which owns the property, said, “This tree stands as a silent witness to history, serving as a living connection to our past.” The tree’s bark is deeply furrowed and scarred by age and the elements, with one of its largest limbs reaching low across the yard before turning skyward again.
Citrus County’s first courthouse, pictured in 1892, is a testament to the area’s rich history. The tree has witnessed the county’s growth and development over the years, from its early days as part of Spanish Florida to its current status as a thriving community. Today, visitors can admire the tree’s grandeur and learn about the area’s history.
The Florida Forest Service estimates the tree’s age at around 262 years old. The tree’s significance extends beyond its age, as it has played a role in shaping the community’s identity. As America marks its 250th anniversary, the tree serves as a living connection to the past, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
