ONCE THE TREE PROVIDED SHADE TO THE AUTO COURT ABOVE.  IT ALSO GREW AROUND THE OLD OAKLEIGH MOTEL, DESTROYED LONG AGO. THEN FOR YEARS THE TREE STOOD IN THE COURTYARD OF A CONDO COMPLEX ON HUNTINGTON DRIVE (Route 66) JUST EAST OF THE 7/11 AT HIGHLAND.

Duarteans first heard of the 50 foot tree’s collapse which occurred about 2:00 a.m. on October 8, 2014 when they tuned in to the morning news, recognizing the oak’s familiar branches at first glance.  It is said that the tree may have begun its stately watch over what eventually became Route 66 more than 200 years ago.  Where it got its reputation as a tree employed to execute swift justice during this town’s wild west days is unknown, but widely accepted.

THE DUARTE HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM WITH THE HELP OF KAREN VANCE AND CHUCK TIPPLE SNAGGED A FEW LIMBS AND CREATED A COMMEMORATIVE PUCK HONORING THIS PIECE OF DUARTE HISTORY.

We’ll miss those graceful branches which stood sentinel over our town for so many years.  But now we can visit the salvaged piece and reflect on our history while paying our respects to that old oak.”

ABOVE – JOSEPH MCVEY PERUSES NEW EXHIBIT AT THE DUARTE HISTORICAL MUSEUM – DEDICATED TO THE LOSS OF THE HISTORICAL HANGING TREE.

The collapse of the hanging tree caused damage to the surrounding townhouses – some balconies and portions of the roof where destroyed.  Within a few days, the tree was sliced up and hauled off.

REST IN PEACE OUR OLD HANGING TREE.  WE WILL MISS YOU.