Ten descendants of the original Toomer's Corner tree began the process of planting today.
The construction team, designers and some of the donors attended.
"The entire process will take about two days," said Ben Burmester, campus planner and facilities manager and designer of Toomer's Corner's new layout. "We will have some bracing straps [around the trees] but right now no plans for for fencing."
The trees were grown by the school of forestry and wildlife at Auburn University. Each is about 15 years old. Six of the trees are still available for naming.
Heather Crozier, director of development for the school of forestry and wildlife, organized the donors and the naming.
"Back in the fall we did some marketing and let people know the trees are available for naming," Crozier said. "One of our trees was named for former Auburn University president William Walker."
Crozier said a dedication is being planned for the donors this fall.
Sarah Boldt, freshman in political science, said she is excited for the beauty the new trees will bring to Toomer's.
"It's pretty exciting," Boldt said. "It will be a nice addition to Samford and it keeps the tradition around even though the old one is gone."
The Live Oaks must be transported along with the soil they grew in and then planted with that soil.
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