What is a Witness Tree?
A witness tree is a living tree that was present during a significant historical event or used by early surveyors as a permanent marker for property boundaries. These ancient trees are like nature’s history books—they might have bullet marks from long-ago battles or carved survey markings. When you stand next to a witness tree, you’re touching something that was actually there hundreds of years ago, watching history happen!
The Challenge
Help Goochland County celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution by finding trees that have been alive since 1776! These witness trees have stood in our county for 250 years, silently observing the history we read about in books.
Your Task
Find and document trees in Goochland County that are at least 250 years old:
- Measure the tree’s circumference using string, twine, or tape measure
- Identify the type of tree
- Record the location (address or GPS coordinates)
- Take a photo of the tree
- Obtain permission from landowners if on private property
- Submit your information using our Google Form: goochlandschools.org/goochlandwitnesstree
A professional forester will determine each tree’s age by extracting a core sample using an increment borer.
Important Dates
Submission Deadline: April 1, 2026
Celebration Event: Arbor Day – April 24, 2026
Recognition
Those who successfully identify witness trees at least 250 years old will be honored at a Board of Supervisors meeting and at our special Arbor Day celebration!
Questions?
Contact us at Witnesstree@goochlandhistory.org
