It’s really hard to believe it when you see it. Pedaled into the small community of Greensburg, IN on a very wet day and couldn’t help notice there’s a tree growing out of the top of the Decatur County Courthouse tower.
According to local history it was early in the 1870’s when a small sprig was spotted in the northwest corner of the tower.
People watched it grow and deemed it a ”freak of nature” as somehow a small seed had taken root in the crevice of the roof 110 feet above the courthouse square.
County officials feared a forest of trees may damage the rooftop so in 1888 a steeplejack removed a portion of the shrub.
What was left grew to a height of 15 feet and the trunk a diameter of 5 inches. The tree weathered the storms of different seasons.
Later it died and was removed but another tree started growing on the southeast corner.
Tourists started coming out for a look see. Businesses on the square took advantage and played off the name.
The Smithsonian Institute of Washington D.C. came out to identify the species of tree; their decision was a large tooth aspen. Today it is a white mulberry tree.
The reason it happens is still a mystery and there is no definite explanation how the seeds from the first tree germinated in place.
As far as sustenance, most believe the dust from the interior as well as dust and moisture from the outdoors does the trick.
One jokester said the tree was fed by the ”spring in the clock.”
Today a ban is in place on all tree jokes in Greensburg, IN.
On a side note: Thanks to Phillip at the Community Center for helping find a safe place to stay in wonderful Greensburg, IN.
If the way that somebody lives pleases the Lord, the Lord will lead him into good things. Psalm 37:23 Easy English Bible
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