Sassafras Tree

Blink and you'll miss it driving on Frederica. It has a historic plaque if you visit on foot that's pretty interesting. The city has to do something about people littering near it.

While the sheer circumference of the trunk is impressive, the tree has suffered in recent years. Utility lines that run through its branches have required extensive pruning as has its growth out over Frederica Street. Tourists literally have to pull over and park on busy KY-2831 southbound to get out to view the tree which is near the edge of the road but on private property. So it is not a spot where one feels comfortable to pause, rest or meditate.

Cool tree really neat. I am sure it was for safety reasons but I wish it would have been taller and more noticeable

Hmmm... Sure it is a true historical treasure, but compared to the 3000 year old, 15ft diameter trees we've seen in sequoia national park, it just didn't have a big wow factor. Worth a stop if in the the very near vacinity. Sad to see the tree has experienced some major trimming/damage.

I have lived in Owensboro all of my life except eight years. My children and grandchildren know of this tree. They find it amazing as well as I do. If you are in Owensboro and can take a few minutes out of your time, by all means stop by and see the tree and read the Historical Marker. Just stop and think about how this tree has been around when nothing much else was here.