Magnolia grandiflora (Brooklyn) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Magnolia grandiflora |
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The magnolia in 2009
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| Location | 679 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, New York City |
| Governing body | Magnolia Tree Earth Center |
| Designated | May 12, 1977 |
| Reference no. | 0957 |
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The Magnolia grandiflora is a very special tree located at 679 Lafayette Avenue in the Bedford–Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. This amazing tree is a type of laurel magnolia. It is quite rare to find a healthy one growing so far north in New York.
This particular tree was brought as a tiny seedling from North Carolina and planted around 1885 by William Lemken. It is one of only two trees ever named a New York City designated landmark. The other landmark tree, the Weeping Beech in Flushing, Queens, is no longer alive.
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The Famous Magnolia Tree
The Magnolia grandiflora in Brooklyn is not just any tree; it is a true survivor. It has stood tall for over 135 years! This makes it one of the oldest and most important trees in New York City. Its landmark status means it is protected and valued for its history and beauty.
A Tree's Journey North
Imagine a small tree seedling traveling all the way from North Carolina to New York in the late 1800s. That's exactly what happened with this magnolia. William Lemken carefully planted it, and it grew into the magnificent tree we see today. It's a living piece of history, showing how plants can adapt and thrive in new places.
How the Tree Became a Landmark
In the 1970s, this historic tree faced a big problem. There were plans to build a parking lot right where it stood! Luckily, a wonderful woman named Hattie Carthan stepped in to protect it. She loved the tree and knew how important it was to the community.
Kids to the Rescue
Hattie Carthan got help from an unexpected group: neighborhood schoolchildren! These kids worked hard to raise money to save the tree. Their efforts showed everyone how much the tree meant to them. Because of their dedication and Hattie's leadership, the tree was officially made a New York City landmark on May 12, 1977. This meant it was safe from being cut down.
The Magnolia Tree Earth Center
After the tree became a landmark, Hattie Carthan started a special group called the Magnolia Tree Earth Center. This nonprofit organization works to make cities more beautiful and teach people about the environment. The center is located in the brownstone building right next to the famous tree. It continues Hattie's work, inspiring people to care for nature in their own neighborhoods.
