The age of the famous Toomer's Oaks has been discovered by carefully counting the trees' growth rings.
Originally, the trees were cut down at an angle that made it impossible to determine their age by counting the rings.
However, Gary Keever, graduate program coordinator for the department of horticulture, and his colleagues cut out a large section of the College Street tree. By applying special oil that increases the clarity of the rings, scientists could analyze the minute details by magnifying the images and looking at them on a projector.
They discovered the trees were planted in 1937, after they were already about ten years old, making their ages between 83 to 85 years.
"It's another piece of evidence that clearly supports the earlier information that they were planted in 1937," Keever said.
To confirm their findings, scientists stripped the leaves from the trees and pressed them between newspapers and boards.
Keever said he suspects the pressed leaves will be sold as souvenirs, similar to the way pieces of the wood are being sold.
As for the piece of the trunk Keever analyzed, he thinks it may find a new home on campus.
"I can see this being displayed somewhere prominent such as the Student Center as a time line," Keever said.
Historical events that happened in the tree's life can be illustrated by pointing out different rings and the year they represent. A display that honors the historic landmark could be a welcome addition to campus.
No matter what happens to the trees' remains, this is good news for the University. Since the trees were poisoned and cut down, a void has been felt around Auburn at the loss of a tradition. Knowing the age and history of the trees can bring a sense of closure to the story of the Toomer's Oaks.
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