Meet the Tree That Owns Itself and Has Children

Photo byAtlas Obscura

Visit the corner of Dearing and Finley Streets in the Classic City, and you will meet the "Tree That Owns Itself." This is a favorite historical landmark for residents of Athens and visitors from near and far. You may be asking how a tree can possibly own itself. Sit back for a bit, and let me tell you this fun story.

The historic tree with self-ownership is an almost 80-year-old, gorgeous White Oak that carries on the legacy of its parent. In 1890, Colonel William H. Jackson owned the property that the tree lives on. Legend has it that Jackson loved this tree and had many favorite memories of playing in this tree as a child.

In an effort to protect the tree for generations to come, he deeded the tree to itself and a radius of 8 feet around the base of its trunk. The deed means that the tree cannot be removed, and the land cannot be built upon.

Tragedy struck in October of 1942 when the tree fell due to natural events. It is unclear whether it was lightning or wind due to a storm. Members of the Athens Junior Ladies Garden Club immediately began growing offspring from the tree's acorns. They were successful, and in December of 1946, the child of the original White Oak was planted in the exact same spot. This child tree was grandfathered into the deed and is still standing to this day.

There are other children of the original "Tree That Owns Itself" scattered around the state and possibly the country.

The legality and existence of the deed is unknown. If contested, nobody is sure if the deed would hold up in today's court. However, at this time, the history of this great tree is enough to protect it.

I wonder what Jackson would think to know his attempt to protect his favorite tree has become one of Athens' most historical landmarks and is still alive and well today?