Common Name: live oak
Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana
Category: Historic tree
Comments: This is known as the Emancipation oak, located on the campus of Hampton University. It was under this tree in 1863 that the emancipation proclamation was read for the first time in the south. Cedric Hurte, of Richmond, VA adds that the Emancipation Act accelerated the demand for African-American education. The peaceful shade of the oak served as the first classroom for newly freed men and women. Mrs. Mary Peake, daughter of a freed colored woman and a Frenchman, conducted the first lessons taught under the oak located on the University's campus. The Emancipation oak is designated as one of the 10 Great Trees of the World by the National Geographic Society. This tree has been nominated four separate times by different people. More information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emancipation_Oak
Dendrology Notes: See also: 1334 and 1443 and 1527
Nominator: Neva Adams, Byron Carmean, Cedric Hurte, Cheyenne Henderson Moss
This tree is not on public or publicly accessible property. The owner's name, address, and the exact location of the tree are not displayed to protect the privacy of these individuals. If you are the owner and wish to make this information public, please let us know.
County/City: Hampton