April 24 (UPI) -- Residents of Bernards, N.J., said their farewells to a 600-year old oak tree, which is slated to be cut down Monday.
The imposing tree, about 100 feet tall and with a circumference of 18 feet and branches spreading 150 feet, was declared dead last summer, reaching the end of its natural life cycle. It stands adjacent to the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church, which was founded in 1717; its branches hang over a graveyard which includes Revolutionary War veterans.
Arborists determined it would not withstand many more winters or spring storms.
"It has been an integral part of the town, that's for sure," said Jon Klippel of the church's planning council. "It has always been there, even before there was a town, and over the years many people have met there, been photographed there, had a meal under the tree. We've been blessed to have it here."
The town encourages legends surrounding the tree's history. Evangelist the Rev. George Whitefield preached to an audience of about 3,000 beneath the tree in 1740, town officials say, and then-Gen. George Washington picnicked with the Marquis de Lafayette under the tree during the Revolutionary War, presumably discussing military strategy.
Over the years it has also served as a scenic element in thousands of photographs taken by residents and visitors.
It will take several days to remove the tree. Its stump will remain in the ground, with a memorial plaque attached, WCBS-TV, New York, reported.
