Baroque Bur Oak

Not far from the hamlet of McBaine (population 10), and just one-half mile from the Missouri River banks, stands what local citizens call “The Big Tree.” This sprawling bur oak is co-holder of the National Championship for the largest tree of its species along with a similar tree in Kentucky. The Big Tree sprouted sometime in the 1600s and is estimated to be 350-400 years old. It is located near the historic Lewis and Clark Trail, and these explorers probably gazed upon its lofty silhouette two centuries ago.

The roadside Big Tree resides on farmland owned by a sixth-generation Show-Me family. This towering oak has survived storms, lightning strikes, 6 foot deep floodwaters from Big Muddy, droughts, vandalism, and spray-painted political graffiti. Bicyclists from the nearby Katy Tail picnic under its leafy shade, and it is not unknown for clergy to contemplatively stroll beneath the mighty skyward reaching branches. Last autumn, after thieves stole its copper grounding cables, a lightning strike set the ancient tree ablaze.

The Boone County Fire Department promptly extinguished the blaze but not before the fire had burned out the core of the tree. Missourians wondered all winter whether enough of the outer nourishing cambium layer of the massive bur oak had been preserved in order to afford its survival. Copper grounding cables were reinstalled as seen below just behind the banjo.

Earlier this spring, the tree`s branches issued tiny delicate buds which soon handsomely leafed out to everyone’s joy and relief. Arborists from the University report that the ancient bur oak has been in decline for a long time but will probably outlive us all. To honor this magnificent and durable Missouri treasure, which has thrived in Heartland soil long before our nation was founded, the local Bur Oak Brewing Company produces a “Big Tree IPA.”

For the Members Only summertime exhibit at the local art league, the BRC craftsman fashioned a ” Baroque Bur Oak” banjo to celebrate the survival of the champion tree.

 

 

 

 

Amidst 90 entries of oil and watercolor paintings, sculptures, multi-media, and woodworks, the Baroque Bur Oak banjo hangs on a central gallery pillar as a learning opportunity for youngsters.