Lanier's Oak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lanier's Oak |
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Lanier's Oak (2019)
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 Lanier's Oak
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Lanier's Oak
Location in the United States
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| Species | Southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) |
| Location | Brunswick, Georgia |
| Coordinates | 31°09′21″N 81°28′45″W / 31.1558°N 81.4791°W |
The Lanier's Oak is a very old and special Southern live oak tree. You can find it in Brunswick, Georgia. This famous tree is named after a well-known poet named Sidney Lanier. It's a historic landmark because of its connection to his work.
Contents
The Story of Lanier's Oak
Who Was Sidney Lanier?
Sidney Lanier was a talented poet from Georgia. He lived and wrote after the American Civil War. Lanier visited Brunswick, Georgia many times. He would stay with his wife's family there. He also hoped the warm climate would help with his health issues.
A Poet's Inspiration
In the 1870s, during one of his visits, something amazing happened. Lanier sat under this very tree. He looked out at the beautiful marshes nearby. The view inspired him to write one of his most famous poems, "The Marshes of Glynn". This poem is still loved today.
Honoring the Tree and Poet
Over the years, people have placed special markers near Lanier's Oak. These markers help us remember its importance.
The First Marker (1932)
In May 1932, a marker made of concrete and bronze was put up. It has words from "The Marshes of Glynn" carved into it. During the ceremony to show the marker, another famous poem, "Trees" by Joyce Kilmer, was read aloud.
The Georgia Historical Marker (1956)
Later, in 1956, the Georgia Historical Commission added another marker. This one is a Georgia historical marker. It tells more about why the tree is so important. It explains its history and connection to Sidney Lanier.
Where the Tree Stands Today
When Sidney Lanier wrote his poem, the marsh was very close to the tree. But over time, the land around the tree changed. People filled in parts of the marsh. Now, the marsh is much farther away. Today, Lanier's Oak stands in the middle section of a busy road. It is located in the median strip of U.S. Route 17. Even with all the changes, it remains a special place.
