Plaque now guards aged Angel Oak

Johns Island landmark first in South Carolina to get Heritage Tree designation The huge, low-hanging limbs of the Angel Oak seemingly embrace all who come and stand under the aged wonder on Johns Island. And now the tree and those who meticulously care for it are being embraced by a state agency that on Monday designated the oak as South Carolina's first Heritage Tree. Charleston Mayor Joe Riley and Ellen Vincent, chairwoman of the South Carolina Urban and Community Forestry Council, unveiled a temporary plaque near the tree off Bohicket Road. A permanent marker will be put in place later, Vincent said. Vincent said the Heritage Tree program was developed by the Forestry Council last year to recognize trees on public lands with historical and cultural value. The Angel Oak was selected because of its long history, the outstanding support it gets from the community and the special care the city gives it, she said. The tree is believed to be between 350 and 500 years old, according to Danny Burbage, Charleston's urban forester. The tree was in private hands until 1991 when the city purchased the site and made it into a park that is open to the public for free. Riley said the city highly values its trees and natural vistas. The oak "seems as something that belongs to all future generations. If you take it for granted, you will lose it," he warned. He said the Angel Oak "needs intelligent, thoughtful and researched tender loving care." Vincent praised the city for the care it has given the tree and noted that the community and its leaders have rallied many times to protect it. "You created an environment where people can get up close and personal without damaging this tree," Vincent said. "You have invested in this tree and have quality people who care for it. You are a model for the entire state," she added.

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