The Fallen Monarch

The Fallen Monarch. Kings Canyon National Park. , (Left side) , One wonders how long this tree fell...A high tanning content makes Giant Sequoia wood undigestible to fungi, bacteria, insects, and other decay organisms. Thus, decay of this wood takes place very slowly! The Fallen Monarch has remained unchanged for well over 100 years, and who knows how much longer! Ponder this...Was the tree hollowed by fire before or after it fell? What numbers will ponder its role in this forest...providing food, footing and fertility as well as shelter for millions of smaller, less durable life forms. , (Right side) , Bears and other creatures have most likely used the Fallen Monarch for shelter. Undoubtedly, the Indians that came to the high country in the summertime used the hollow trees. Homesteaders Thomas and Isreal Gamlin used the log as a house and a saloon to serve visitors to the area. Also, the U.S. Cavalry used the tree as a stable for their horses. Every day visitors to the Big Trees were served meals and liquid refreshment here. , (Inscription) , After the grove was set aside as General Grant National Park in 1890, the log was used for a while as an employee camp.