NYC’s Oldest and Tallest Tree Grows in Alley Pond Park, Queens
In case you haven’t noticed, we typically talk about buildings here at 6sqft, but today we’re taking a look at a different kind of structure important to the urban fabric of New York City–a tree. But not just any tree; this is the oldest and tallest tree in the entire city, and it can be found in Alley Pond Park in Queens, between Douglaston and Bayside.
Known as the Queens Giant, the record holder is a 134-foot (when last measured in 2005) tulip poplar tree that is believed to be 450 years old, according to Untapped Cities. Despite its impressive status, however, even the most seasoned New Yorkers don’t know about this gem, which is likely what has led to its longevity.
There’s a Parks Department sign at the base of the tree, but getting to it to begin with is the challenging part, as there’s no signage leading to the tree and it’s hidden within a grove. It’s surrounded by a metal fence to protect it, and the sign says: “It was standing tall when General George Washington passed close by in 1790 on a tour of Long Island, and it was most likely a young tree when the Dutch East India Company sent a group of Walloon families to Manhattan in 1624.” Just imagine what else it’s seen!
[Via Untapped Cities]
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I grew up, going to Alley pond park. I have seen this very tree. Great place for a days outing