The historic Hobson Oak stood on the edge of Naperville for over two centuries, welcoming all who came to town.
But after much time, its branches sagged lower as limbs died, and the trunk decayed, leading multiple arborists to recommend its removal.
However, the tree’s legacy will not be forgotten. A group of local organizations and citizens are working together to preserve its wood, eventually giving it new life as furniture, decorative pieces and jewelry.
Saplings were also collected, with the hope of germination and planting, growing memories for decades to come.
Naperville News 17’s Evan Summers reports.