Common Name: white oak
Scientific Name: Quercus alba
Category: Champion (big) tree
Comments: The Northrop Oak is a huge old White Oak tree located in Crooked Branch Ravine Park in Richmond, VA. It is on what was formerly the Northrop Estate just south of the James River along Reedy Creek in the city of Richmond. We came close to losing this tree when a school was to be built on the property. Fortunately a better location was found for the school and we were able to have Crooked Branch Ravine designated as a Natural Area Park by the city of Richmond. George Wythe High School is built on part of the old Northrop Estate. The original Northrop mansion burned to the ground many years ago. While the building was burning, Mrs. Northrop is said to have sat at a table outside writing a letter to her architect requesting that a new house be built. We like to imagine that she sat under the old oak tree. The current house was preserved when the area surrounding it was developed for housing for seniors. The Northrop Oak is close to the edge of the woods that is next to this housi
Best time to photograph: Any season, noon or later
Nominator: Robin C. Ruth
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: Richmond City