Common Name: white oak
Scientific Name: Quercus alba
Category: Historic tree
Comments: This giant white oak tree is one of five that survive on the property known as "White House" in southern Bedford County, Virginia, near Smith Mountain Lake. In 1859, a wealthy planter named George Goob Saunders had a large frame house constructed for himself and his family in the midst of a hilltop oak grove overlooking his extensive landholdings. Because this house was reportedly the first in the area to be painted with store-bought white paint and because of its location near the intersection of five roads, Saunderss house became a landmark for travelers. Although the house was destroyed by fire in 1925, five white oaks survive on the property located in the heart of a small, but thriving, rural community named for the late plantation house. Even though we do not know if this particular tree was alive when the "White House" was constructed, it still serves as a tangible reminder of our communitys history. Estimated to be over one hundred years old, the enormous size and grande
Best time to photograph: Anytime of the day during the summer months
Nominator: Jason Johnson
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: Bedford