Canadians Unite In a Fight to Save an Ancient Tree Older Than the Country Itself

By Penelope Wilson
The Hearty Soul
October 30, 2024
Category: Forestry
Region: Canada, Canada East

Citizens in Toronto, Ontario, Canada are fighting to save a 300-year-old Northern Red Oak tree from being cut down by the owner of its host property. Homeowner Ali Simaga agreed to a deal with the Toronto City Council to sell the property to the city for conservation purposes. The tree dates back to some of the earliest French explorers who settled in Ontario. Standing at a stunning 79 feet (24 meters), the beautiful piece of history and nature is one of the oldest trees in the city. This special oak bears a powerful sentimental heritage from Canadians – It was an important landmark that safely guided thousands of native travelers. According to historian Madeleine McDowell, the tree’s current location was formerly the Humber Valley trail used by Indigenous Canadians and European traders.

Read More