The tree that links us closest to the mysteries of our ancient
past is the yew. With its incredible life span, tolerance to harsh
conditions, and ability to rejuvenate the Yew has been generally
regarded through the ages as a symbol of both death and
immortality, and is now most familiar as the "Graveyard Tree".
In fact, before churches were built, the Yew was "the church"
and people would visit these sacred trees in order to reach the
spritual world. However, it is also known that the tree is so
poisonous that on a very hot day a person can get high just by
sitting above the roots! Perhaps this is why it became sacred!?
Many Yews today have been around for a very, very long time with
perhaps the oldest in Europe being Fortingall Yew Tree in Glen
Lyon, Perthshire, Scotland, which is estimated as being between
3,000 and 5,000 years old, although some experts think it to be
nearer to 9,000! With the Yew's amazing ability to rejuvenate even
after severe damage many believe they can live forever.
They are however very difficult trees to age as the "annual ring
counting" method does not apply and carbon dating gives false
results.
The wood itself is very durable and was used by the Vikings as
nails for building their long boats. Also, the world's oldest
wooden artefact is a 150,000 year old Yew Spear found near
Clacton.
The age of the Yew here at Kenn is unknown although its huge
girth indicates it as being very old (well into four figures). It's
first mention was in 12th Century church records and an 1842 sketch
of Kenn Church by William Spreat shows the tree to the right of the
picture below.
Please do not eat any berries or seeds nearby as they could
be highly toxic!