Heritage Trees

By Amy Galblum

Ever since I attended the community meeting to discuss the ‘Mary Baker Eddy’ property (corner of Augustus and Poplar streets) I have been thinking about the oldest trees in Roslindale. One of these very big trees is on that property, and despite assurances from the developer that he would try to save every tree he could, this mighty Beech tree looks like it is right in the area on which he proposes to build.

Enormous, old trees like this one and others in the neighborhood are treasures. They are our heritage. In fact, I think of them as Heritage Trees. They enhance our streets and yards. And while they don’t last forever, we should be doing what we can to make sure they last as long as possible. Mapping them could alert people to their location so we can visit them, and knowing where they are may forestall removals when development encroaches.

Across the street from the Mary Baker Eddy house (corner of Poplar and Sycamore Streets) is a gigantic Sycamore tree.

At the bottom of Kittredge Street, next to Trethewey Brothers is a huge Elm. Now this is doubly amazing - it is both large and rare. There are not many elms left.

Are there any Heritage Trees near you? If so, can you post locations and/or photos?