If trees could talk, this one would have many tales to tell. The Pinchot Sycamore in Simsbury, Connecticut is not only the oldest tree in Connecticut, but is also one of the oldest living things in America. If you’re fascinated by history, nature, or both, you’ll want to check it out for yourself.
Located near Talcott Mountain on the east side of the Farmington River, a centerpiece to Simsbury's Pinchot Sycamore Park, the Pinchot Sycamore's estimated age ranges between 200 to nearly 500 years old.
Pinchot was the first chief of the U.S. Forestry Service, appointed in 1905 by Theodore Roosevelt. He served in the role under both Roosevelt and President Taft until 1910. He was later elected for two terms as Pennsylvania governor.
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The sycamore was originally dedicated to Pinchot in 1965. A second dedication took place in 1975, when an engraved stone marker was placed at the site.
It also has the honor of being in the running for New England's largest sycamore. In 2006, the Connecticut Botanical Society measured the tree's trunk at 28 feet around, while its height measures over 100 feet tall and its canopy spread is 120 feet wide. In 2011, it suffered damage due to a massive storm, but has continued to thrive.
The Pinchot Sycamore shares its title as the largest American Sycamore with another tree located in Bath County, Virginia.
No matter when you stop by, you'll be impressed by this towering tree and the beauty it's immersed in.
Have you had a chance to see the Pinchot Sycamore in person? If you haven’t, you can see it at 20 Hartford Rd., Simsbury, CT 06070, just south of the town center. Have another great natural locale in Connecticut to share? Let us know by filling out our nomination form here.
