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The Tree That Owns Itself, Lake Eufaula Travel Guide

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Discover Eufaula's enchanting landmark: The Tree That Owns Itself, a symbol of nature, history, and community spirit in the heart of Alabama.

In Eufaula, Alabama, stands a unique landmark: The Tree That Owns Itself. This isn't just any tree; it's a symbol of the town's deep-rooted history and enduring community spirit. Granted ownership of its land in 1935, it continues to capture the imagination of visitors.

A brief summary to The Tree That Owns Itself

  • Eufaula, Alabama, 36027, US
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Tree That Owns Itself.

  • Parking near the Tree That Owns Itself can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Plan to arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding historic district to admire the beautiful antebellum homes and learn more about Eufaula's past.
  • Visit the Eufaula Barbour County Chamber of Commerce for more information about local attractions and events.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Tree That Owns Itself is located at the intersection of Cotton Avenue and Highland Avenue in Eufaula. From most points in the downtown area, it's easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the intersection, and you'll find the tree enclosed by a wrought-iron fence.

  • Public Transport

    Eufaula has a public transit system, the Eufaula Barbour Transit Authority (EBTA). It operates on a demand-response system, so you need to call 24 hours in advance to schedule a ride. A one-way fare is $2, and a round trip is $4. From the transit hub, you can ask to be dropped off near the intersection of Cotton and Highland Avenue, a short walk from the tree. Call 334-687-1242 or 334-687-7423 for scheduling.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Eufaula. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Tree That Owns Itself should cost approximately $5 - $10. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip. Uber is also an alternative to taxis when you need to get around Eufaula. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. Whether you're requesting a ride from the airport or to help you discover somewhere new, log in on Uber.com or open the app and enter a destination in Eufaula.

Discover more about The Tree That Owns Itself

The Tree That Owns Itself in Eufaula, Alabama, is more than just a tree; it's a living testament to the town's unique character and its residents' respect for nature. The original tree, a post oak also known as the Walker Oak, was granted its freedom in 1935 by Mayor E.H. Graves, ensuring its protection. The deed, a "deed of sentiment," conveyed ownership of itself, its branches, limbs, trunk, and roots, "so long as it shall live." This act was driven by the Eufaula Garden Club's desire to preserve the beloved city landmark for future generations. The original Walker Oak stood for over 200 years, surviving a fire and a tornado before finally succumbing to wind damage in 1961.Following the loss of the original tree, the International Paper Company donated a replacement, ensuring the legacy continued. The new tree was dedicated on April 19, 1961, and granted the same self-governance as its predecessor. Today, a sign near the tree reads, "Only God Can Make a Tree," a fitting tribute to this natural wonder. The site is located at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Cotton Avenue, easily accessible to visitors. It serves as a reminder of Eufaula's rich history and the importance of community preservation.

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