Lt. John C. Fremont tree - Felton, California
Posted by: 
hotshoe
N 37° 02.160 W 122° 03.550
10S E 583672 N 4099279
Lt. Fremont camped inside the hollow base of this living redwood tree
Waymark Code: WM4W7V
Location: California, United States
Date Posted: 10/05/2008
Views: 24
The plaque says:
THE LT. JOHN C. FREMONT TREE
LT. FREMONT ENGAGED IN SURVEYING THE SHORTEST ROUTE BETWEEN THE ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC, CAMPED HERE ON FEBURARY 25, 1846.
However, the park rangers say he did not camp here merely near this tree; he camped inside the tree. It is naturally hollowed out at the base and is larger inside than it appears from outside. It's roomier than an army tent. Fremont and at least some of his men would have slept more comfortably inside the tree than next to it.
Later on, this tree was a more-or-less regular habitation for a denizen of Roaring Camp. One time, a shelf was cut into the remaining wood inside, which can still be seen today. A window was cut through the wood and bark opposite the "door", but the tree has healed over and closed up the window, leaving only a scar visible from inside.
About one hundred years ago, there was an outdoor saloon at the base of this tree.
Historic Event:
Lt. Fremont and his men camped at this tree while surveying for the US government prior to California statehood
Year: 1846
Species: Coast redwood
Approximate Age: 1000
Location: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton
Website: Not listed
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