There’s No Other Historical Landmark In Buffalo Quite Like This 300-Year-Old Tree
By Lea Monroe|Published September 17, 2019
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Lea Monroe
Author
Writer for Only In Your State. Scribbling about all things New York and Buffalo related while also keeping you updated on the latest travel news! Inquiries: Lmonroe@onlyinyourstate.com
Historical hidden gems can be found scattered all throughout Buffalo, some requiring a bit of effort to discover within the city while others can be found hiding in plain sight. Unbeknownst to many, you can find a piece of living history that will stop you in your tracks right on the roadside in one of Buffalo’s most charming historic districts. Dating all the way back to before the city was even founded, see why there’s no other historical landmark like this towering tree in the Queen City.
Located at 402 Franklin Street, you'll notice that right along the roadside there's a tree growing at a 45-degree angle, stretching all across the top of the road.
Nearly 60 years ago, the age of this Sycamore tree was determined by a city forestry officer, and in October of 1960 a plaque was placed on the tree to showcase its historical significance.
Determined to date all the way back to sometime between 1710 and 1713, this Sycamore tree has been around since well before Buffalo was even settled and even survived the burning of the city during the War of 1812!
Today, charming houses and a sidewalk surround the historic tree, with locals and out-of-towners alike both frequently pulling over to take a picture with the oldest tree in Buffalo.
More than 60 feet tall and over 12 feet in diameter, you'll want to head over here to see the oldest tree in Buffalo for yourself if you've yet to explore this area of Franklin Street.
You may be used to hearing about the oldest restaurants, bars, and downtown buildings here in Buffalo, but did you realize we knew where the oldest tree was? Fascinating!