The Toomer's Trees have been an iconic part of Auburn University throughout the years since the 1930s. They have been symbols of the Auburn Family and a place of unity after Auburn's victories. Unfortunately, where there is greatness there can often be jealousy, and with jealousy comes harm.
"I think that the first target (of the trees) that happened with Harvey Updyke was out of stupidity," Marlye Armstrong said. "Sometimes things happen and we don't know why, but as far as other times like when they've been caught on fire I think a lot of alcohol has to do with it."
Whatever the reason for the trees being targeted, the trees are struggling and it is time to think of other options.
Auburn has generated a survey so that students can voice their opinions on what they would like to see happen to the trees.
The Committee to Study the Future of Rolling Toomer's Corner recommends that if the oak trees are replaced, they would be replaced with either one or multiple transplanted trees that would be big and live, according to the Toomer's Corner Survey. The survey emphasizes the importance of the gates that were constructed in 1917 and are also an important part of Toomer's Corner.
The survey includes four options including the circle and center, Olmsted arc path, arcs and radials, and the Samford diagonal.
Students that were interviewed on the matter had varying opinions as to why the trees are targeted.
"It's a symbol of Auburn. If you can attack the tree you attack
Auburn," said Patrick Davidson, freshman in mechanical engineering.
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