Saplings from Historic Emancipation Oak Planted at Brock Environmental Center

emancipation oak brock-Kenny Fletcher-1171x593

A sapling from the Emancipation Oak is planted in front of the Brock Environmental Center.

Charlene Ihrig

On the morning of Saturday November 4, 2017, youth from a Virginia Beach 4-H club planted 12 saplings from the historic Emancipation Oak at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach. The Emancipation Oak is an ancient sprawling live oak tree on the grounds of Hampton University. During the Civil War, newly freed slaves were educated in the shade of its branches, and it was the site of the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in the South.

Ten years ago, Hampton nurseryman Eddie Anderson planted a batch of acorns from the Emancipation Oak. In 2010 one of the seedlings was given to President Barack Obama for planting on the White House grounds. The remaining 12 offspring have since been growing at Anderson's house. They now range from five to nine feet tall.

Youth from the 4-H Guardians of the Planet of Virginia Beach joined Anderson in planting these trees Saturday morning across the Brock Center grounds. There they will provide habitat for wildlife and a significant link to Virginia history for visitors. With their strong wood, low spreading profile, and tolerance of salt and sandy conditions, these native live oaks are perfectly adapted to the local environment.

Another one of Anderson's Emancipation Oak saplings was planted on Sunday, Nov. 5, in the City of Hampton in a spot overlooking Elizabeth Lake at the head of the Hampton River, where the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) has worked with local residents to construct an oyster reef. Members of the community came together to plant the sapling, which was rowed in a boat to the site from Anderson's home. Claire Neubert, a CBF Clean Water Captain who lives nearby, says the sapling is now a part of the community. "I am full of hope for the continuing history of this lovely tree," she said. 

Kenny Fletcher 90x110

Kenny Fletcher

Director of Communications and Media Relations, CBF

[email protected]
804-258-1628

Issues in this Post

Volunteers   Brock Environmental Center   CBF in Virginia  




Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in the media or articles on this site are those of the speakers or authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions held by CBF and the inclusion of such information does not imply endorsement by CBF. CBF is not responsible for the contents of any linked Website, or any link contained in a linked Website, or any changes or updates to such Websites. The inclusion of any link is provided only for information purposes.


The Bay Needs You

The State of the Bay Report makes it clear that the Bay needs our support now more than ever. Your donation helps the Chesapeake Bay Foundation maintain our momentum toward a restored Bay, rivers, and streams for today and generations to come.

Donate Today

Stay Up-to-Date on Bay News

Want to stay up-to-date on all news and happenings in your region and across the Chesapeake watershed? Join our digital community.

Sign Up
x
This website uses cookies to tailor and enhance your online experience. By continuing, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. For more information, including details on how to disable cookies, please visit our Privacy Policy. Close