Possible trail tree sighting, above limestone, cave region in Virginia
JMummey:
This is so cool! My husband spotted this tree in Virginia over the weekend, it reminded him of a trail tree. He's going to take me to the area to explore it further for artifacts next month, I'm so excited! Growing up in Ohio I had seen pictures of trail trees but I've never actually seen one, I hope that's what it is!!!
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Homefire:
What is a Trail Tree?
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JMummey:
Hi! For an in-depth explanation, this is a good description of trail trees: You are not allowed to view links.
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This web site contains a lot of good photos of them: You are not allowed to view links.
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My short version: Trail trees are trees that were intentionally distorted (when they were very young trees) by Native Americans for specific purposes like clearly marking trails for others, marking paths to water sources, etc. Saplings or twigs were often tied down in specific positions to "point" to general areas. They are rare, it is unlikely this tree is one (it could be naturally deformed) but with its sharp angle, and it being within the Cherokee Homelands, there is a possibility. Once we explore the region we will have a better idea of if it is one or not (clues will be if there are other trees nearby with similar sharp angles that seem to point in a common direction, if this tree points to a nearby water source and if we find any artifacts), it should be an interesting afternoon!
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Karl:
Well that was a interesting read.
it seems plausible .
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ArfieBoy:
It makes sense to me! :)
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Homefire:
Not Sure what type of Tree that is but it does not look very old to me. 20- 50 years tops.
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Karl:
Your right Homie . I don't think there very old either .
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BitburgAggie_7377:
Unless you know the species, the location, and the growth conditions, looks can be very deceiving......especially to someone who is not a trained arborist or forestry maintenance type. I know of several species where a tree that size would be well over 50 years old. And even if you are right about the age, that doesn't negate the possibility of it being a trail tree --- just done by someone else (which makes it all the more interesting). Of ALL the supposed markings that we get asked about, this is the type I would come closest to doing myself (and I'd be doing it as a trail marker, not a "treasure" sign). The big risk with this type of trail marking is a) folks cutting them down and b) fire burning them down.
BA
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goldnboy:
I got one ive found in a urban location! Something happened to
the young tree. Im gonna have a bit more of an investigation of the
Surrounding area . U just never know unless you try 8)
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JMummey:
My husband says it is an oak tree but neither of us are good at determining age so I can't help there at all. I can't wait to get out there and spend the day looking for clues, this is such a remote area - it should be fun. I know a few spelunkers (I hope I spelled that right) explored the caves about 15 years ago but that's about all the activity this place has seen in a long time.
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