Texas City Is Relocating a 400-Year-Old Oak Tree Named ‘Jolene.’ It’ll Cost Nearly $1 Million

Texas City Moves Historic 400-Year-Old Tree ‘Jolene’ at a Cost of Nearly $1 Million

In a remarkable move, officials in Kyle, Texas, have decided to relocate a 400-year-old oak tree known as “Jolene” to facilitate a road widening project. The Old Stagecoach Heritage Oak Tree measures a whopping 51 inches in diameter and is deeply intertwined with the city’s history. However, its current position, just 6 inches from the edge of the road’s pavement, posed a challenge for the ongoing infrastructure development.

The city of Kyle has allocated close to $1 million for the delicate relocation process of this ancient tree, which has witnessed centuries of events unfold around it. Despite being a prominent feature of the landscape, the tree’s future came under scrutiny in recent years as authorities sought to execute road improvements approved by voters. The decision to move forward with relocating ‘Jolene’ wasn’t taken lightly and stirred a mix of emotions among residents.

Local activist Casey Landers emphasised the significance of preserving the tree, highlighting its age that predates the formation of the United States itself. Amidst protests and petitions, city officials deliberated various options, including salvaging the wood for an art project, realigning the road project, and ultimately, relocating the tree to ensure its protection. The emotional turmoil surrounding the fate of ‘Jolene’ garnered support from over 2,000 signatories on a Change.org petition, echoing a shared sentiment of preserving history.

After much contemplation, the city council made a definitive choice to proceed with the relocation, viewing it as a necessary step in balancing development with conservation. ‘Jolene’ is slated to be transplanted to a new location a quarter-mile north of its current spot, where it will find sanctuary in a designated parklet. City authorities underscored the meticulous planning behind selecting the tree’s new home, considering factors like soil composition to facilitate the tree’s transition seamlessly.

As the relocation process gears up for the upcoming fall season, post-relocation care spanning from 2025 to 2027 is lined up to support ‘Jolene’ in adapting to its new environment. While uncertainties loom over the tree’s survival post-move, the city pledges its unwavering commitment to sustaining the oak’s legacy through ongoing maintenance efforts. The narrative of ‘Jolene’ embodies a delicate balance between progress and heritage, symbolising a community’s dedication to honouring its past amidst a rapidly evolving landscape.

In the face of urban expansion and modernisation, the saga of ‘Jolene’ resonates as a beacon of resilience and reverence for nature’s timeless presence. The upcoming relocation project stands as a poignant chapter in the tree’s enduring legacy, underscoring the enduring bond between a community and its living heritage. The spirit of ‘Jolene’ lives on through the collective efforts to ensure its survival, transcending time and reminding us of the intrinsic value of preserving our natural treasures.