The Poem Tree, Carved tree inscription at Wittenham Clumps, England
The beech tree located on Castle Hill featured a twenty-line poem meticulously carved into its bark, visible against the natural surroundings of Oxfordshire.
Joseph Tubb spent two summer weeks in 1844 crafting the inscription while camping near the tree with a ladder and carving tools at Wittenham Clumps.
The carved verses on the tree referenced local landmarks including Augustine's monastery, Roman villa remains, and the ancient border between Mercia and Wessex.
Visitors can locate a commemorative stone near the original tree site, displaying a transcription of the poem installed during the 150th anniversary celebration.
After the tree collapsed in 2012, its remains were preserved in place to create a natural habitat, with anonymous mourners placing flowers on its shattered trunk.
Inception: 1844
Creator: Joseph Tubb
GPS coordinates: 51.62820,-1.17858
Latest update: March 9, 2025 19:10
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