BECKLEY, W.Va. – The large old oak tree in front of the Raleigh County Courthouse was removed Thursday after standing for about 120 years.
Raleigh County Administrator Jay Quesenberry said the county had no choice because the tree was dying, with the drought most likely a contributing factor.
“We tried to save the tree,” he said, providing nutrients it may need, but leaves that had been on it were dying and it had to come down for safety reasons.
Quesenberry said no one is sure of the tree’s exact age, but it was probably planted around 1900.
However, the beauty the tree brought to the courthouse yard will eventually return.
“We will plant another tree there,” he said.
Copyright 2024 WVVA. All rights reserved.