Recent publicity has made the stately Onancock oak tree a welcome addition to the pantheon of famous Eastern Shore trees, of which there are many.
At the moment, there is a question of whether the Onancock tree is an obstacle to the placement of a farmers market on land surrounding the tree. No decision has been made to keep or remove the tree, but there are strong feelings on both sides.
So add the Onancock oak to the list of Eastern Shore trees that, over the years, have prompted community pride and curiosity.
Some may have heard of the large oak trees planted in 1668 to mark the Maryland line. They came to be called the “marriage trees,” as Virginia couples would travel to Maryland to wed because of the state’s more lenient marriage laws.
One of Eastville’s main thoroughfares, Willow Oak Road, derives its name from the national champion willow oak tree beside it.
One of the handsomest trees you’ll ever see is the massive sycamore on Back Street in Accomac. It was planted in 1776 to celebrate the Declaration of Independence.
Then there are the highway crepe myrtles, planting of which began almost 100 years ago. There are now thousands of them along U.S. Route 13, thanks to the continuing efforts of several women’s groups.
Remember the unique cork trees — one each in Capeville and Onancock?
Our remarkable trees show the Eastern Shore’s pride in our history and our nature. Onancock’s oak deserves careful study and thoughtful planning.
