Door Tree, Natural curiosity in Hamden, US
The Door Tree was a white oak displaying a distinctive arched shape formed by two trunks that grew together, creating a natural doorway opening. This unusual formation stood approximately 50 feet from New Road on property managed by the Regional Water Authority in the Mount Carmel district.
The tree was first documented in photographs from 1898 and remained standing for more than 150 years as a local landmark. In July 2019, it was destroyed through intentional damage caused by chainsaw vandalism.
The Regional Water Authority collaborated with D.L. Heritage Works to transform remnants of the tree into commemorative pens for the Hamden Historical Society.
The tree grew on property managed by a water authority that was not open to casual public access without permission. Visitors would have needed advance approval to view the site during its existence.
Curtis Pardee admitted to intentionally destroying the tree due to personal animosity toward his brother, who had developed a strong attachment to this natural formation. After its destruction, portions of the tree were salvaged and crafted into commemorative pens gifted to the Hamden Historical Society.
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