Central Ward in Newark in Essex County, New Jersey — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Historic Plane Tree
Photographed By R. C., March 15, 2008
1. Historic Plane Tree / Washington Tree Marker
before the Revolutionary
War, is the oldest now
standing in Newark
Placed by
Nova Caesarea Chapter
D.A.R. 1938
Erected 1938 by Nova Caesarea Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Horticulture & Forestry. In addition, it is included in the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Historic Trees series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1938.
Location. 40° 44.354′ N, 74° 10.186′ W. Marker is in Newark, New Jersey, in Essex County. It is in the Central Ward. Marker is at the intersection of Broad Street and Raymond Blvd, on the right when traveling north on Broad Street. Marker and tree are in Military Park on the Broad Street side closest to Raymond Blvd. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 60 Park Place, Newark NJ 07102, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Wars of America (within shouting distance of this marker); Philip Kearny (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Training Place (about 300 feet away); Archie Callahan (about 400 feet away); Trinity Church
this page online
Regarding Historic Plane Tree. The Historic Plane Tree, or "Washington Tree" as it is commonly called is an ancient sycamore that could be as old as 300 years. Regardless, this tree was full grown when George Washington marched his troops into Newark during their retreat across New Jersey.
Sadly, this tree is near death and cannot be saved. In a few short years, the last tree in the area that was there when history was being made will be no more.
Also see . . . Survivor of the Revolution. (Submitted on March 19, 2008, by Ronald Claiborne of College Station, Texas.)
Photographed By R. C., March 15, 2008
2. Side View of Marker from Broad Street
My backpack is next to the tree to give the viewer an idea of scale. It's unlikely that two adults could get their arms around the trunk.
Photographed By R. C.
3. Damage to the Tree by Vandals
Photographed By R. C., March 15, 2008
4. View of the Tree from Broad Street
Credits. This page was last revised on February 16, 2023. It was originally submitted on March 19, 2008, by Ronald Claiborne of College Station, Texas. This page has been viewed 1,361 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on March 19, 2008, by Ronald Claiborne of College Station, Texas. • Christopher Busta-Peck was the editor who published this page.
