Story

The Greenwood Legacy Tree is one of Tulsa’s most important living witnesses to the past. Located in the Historic Greenwood District on the grounds of Carver Middle School, this American Elm tree has stood for over a century, weathering fire, ice, storms, disease, and even violence. We believe that, contrary to previous age estimates, this tree is a witness not only to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre but also to the birth of Greenwood itself and the community’s long struggle for justice in the decades that followed. This one tree witnessed it all and continues to stand as a living archive to what only 2 human survivors still alive on this earth have witnessed first hand. It is our mission to keep this living testament to Black freedom and community resilience for as long as possible. 

Today, this sacred heritage tree is in the late stages of its natural life. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture- Forest Service, American Elm trees in healthy soil can live up to 175 to 200 years, and if this tree was already standing in 1906, when the Black Town of Greenwood was established, it would be approximately 120 years old. Although it’s exact age is difficult to determine, especially since the tree appears to be mostly hollow inside the trunk, it is clear that it requires urgent action to remain standing. The following efforts outlined in this proposal are necessary to extend the life of this Black Heritage Tree and ensure it remains a source of education, memory, and cultural pride for future generations.

The Black Heritage Tree Project has now partnered with the Tulsa Public Schools leadership team to formally collaborate on the protection and preservation of this historic tree. This effort will combine arboricultural care, artistic interpretation, student and community engagement, and lobbying for historical recognition. It aligns with TPS’s commitment to culturally responsive education, historical truth-telling, and teaching the stewardship of local heritage.