A few years back, we became interested in Big Tree “Park” after hearing about it from a friend. Based on her graphic description of the 3,500-year old cypress tree and 2,000-year old companion tree located inside this namesake park, we simply had to go see these two trees for ourselves. We intuitively followed our hearts and took the brief journey to “Longwood, Florida”. Thank you, friend, for sharing that suggestion.

Big Tree “Park” has unique charm. For instance, upon entering through the gate, you notice that the “parking lot” encompasses a playground area where people can play with their children. Happy outbursts of conversation and laughter fill the air, embracing everything in its path, and spreading positive vibes to anyone wishing to tune-in. Sometimes people are just strolling around, taking in nature’s grace and beauty—colorful butterflies, frolicking squirrels, chirping birds, and varied greenery. All these things and more contribute to the healthful benefits of spending an enjoyable day in the “park”.

*View of peaceful forest setting near raised terrain Big Tree “Park“*

Also, it’s interesting to note that the namesake Big Tree was a popular landmark for Indigenous People inhabiting this area. Reportedly, the Big Tree and three other tall cypress trees served as navigational markers for early travelers along the Welaka (“St. Johns”) River. The years took a toll on two of these giants, leaving behind this famous tree and its companion, Lady Liberty, to serve as landmarks.

Moving forward to 2012, imagine our devastation when the Big Tree was destroyed by arson. What a loss. Some people understandably could not bring themselves to return to the “park” even when it re-opened months later.

It was reported that samples taken from the Big Tree years earlier had yielded a “clone” tree, which was named “The Phoenix”. This new tree is planted inside the playground area and, although we felt uneasy seeing a fence around it, the “park” staff found it necessary to protect the tree while its growing. Yes, it is still a beautiful tree and we’re glad to see it at Big Tree “Park”.

“The Phoenix“, a seedling tree reportedly from the Bald Cypress, before it was destroyed.

As we pray that Lady Liberty enjoys continued health and longevity as one of The Land of Flowers oldest cypress trees, our hearts will forever resonate with love for The Big Tree. And…call it wishful thinking… Recently, we saw a lot of beautiful greenery still thriving on its remaining trunk portion. Also, we appreciated finding an article that noted some small seedlings sprouting from the base of The Big Tree. Anything is possible—Right?

*Greenery growing on the burnt remains of the ancient Big Tree, “Longwood, Florida“.*

Big Tree “Park” will always be a special place for us, especially in light of its Indigenous past and noticeable shells in the soil near the boardwalk. Also, Big Tree “Park” is located within the Spring Hammock Preserve, a 1,500-acre wilderness area that is home to many more ancient cypress trees. And according to the “Florida Master Site File”, the preserve contains four ‘culturally significant’ sites. We look forward to finding these archaeological spots as we delve deeper inside the preserve.

In closing, we’ll definitely continue experiencing and exploring Big Tree “Park” and “Spring Hammock Preserve” on our journey to pay homage to First Nation People.

And to follow is a video captured during previous journeys to Big Tree “Park”.

"Big Tree Park and Spring Hammock Preserve - Longwood, Florida"