Longwood, Florida Remembers "The Senator Tree" of Central Florida.

The Senator Tree in Seminole County, Florida

Long-time residents of Central Florida will remember the very large tree of Central Florida, nicknamed "The Senator Tree", in 1927 after State Senator Moses Overstreet.  At one point in time, this tree was impressively gigantic, 165 feet tall.  This towering tree became an icon for Seminole County, Florida and was adored by Central Florida Residents.

The End of an Icon

Before the tree earned it's nickname, in 1925 a Hurricane reduced the height of the tree from 165 feet to 138 feet.  In 2012, the massive tree had lost more height due to age, and stood a still impressive 118 feet tall.  However, Seminole County lost an icon that year.  The Big Tree did not survive the ferocious flames set by a 26 year-old woman who told police that she set the fire "because it was too dark, and she wanted to see the drugs that she was using".  The "Senator Tree" was a total loss. 

Seminole County Remembers The Senator Tree

The tree as it once stood is lost forever, however, residents of Seminole County, Florida still have the opportunity to see a piece of this great Central Florida landmark.  Through September 30th, 2015 Longwood, Florida residents and visitors will be able to review various pieces of artwork that are made from the charred timbers of the fallen grand tree. Additionally, pieces of the Senator Tree have been donated to the U.S. National Herbatorium Museum in Washington D.C.  If you are interested in checking out this great piece of Central Florida history, the details are below:

Beginning this weekend, we can see more than 100 of the results at the Museum of Seminole County History, in an exhibition titled "The Senator's Sculptures: Ancient Wood Reborn." The work of 18 artists, it will be on display through Sept. 30.

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