Our Balmville Tree

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Written, July 1, 2024
For The Contest, “D Form - Dramatic Verse”
Sponsor, Constance La France

A 300-year-old Eastern Cottonwood tree in Balmville, the Town of Newburgh — believed to be the oldest of its species in the country — was taken down by state officials on Wednesday, August 5, 2015. The state Department of Environmental Conservation removed the tree, citing its failing state and the potential hazard to passing traffic at the intersection of Balmville Road, Commonwealth Avenue, and River Road in the hamlet of Balmville.

Dated to 1699, it was more than 98 inches in diameter at breast height. In 2000, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Poughkeepsie Journal.

Since Sixteen Ninety-Nine, she stood- mid intersection of three roads. Nine years ago, they took her down our tree- the famous Cottonwood. There soon, they built a tiny park and planted flowers in support to honor her large trunk remains. But oh, how nature took its toll as time displays the vision now. Her stump- long slivers of dried bark; its center opened wide to view her hallowed, etched, and empty shell. The beauty of the park declined- with weeds that sadly claimed the space. It won't be long before her stump- the only vision we have left, will be removed to close the place that held our special memories; of this, our famous Balmville tree- where once, George Washington had stood. And- we will say our last goodbyes.

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Constance La France

Date: 8/7/2024 2:01:00 PM

Sandra, congratulations on your win in my contest with this wonderfully penned poem, so emotional, well done, liked the images too, Constance

Crystol Woods

Date: 7/17/2024 5:59:00 AM

Trees, plants, all living things can become apart of us and beloved... memories and people we hold dear. <3xo

Jan Allison

Date: 7/2/2024 6:24:00 AM

It is such a sad vision to see the tree down to almost bare roots. I am sure I have read your poems about this tree in the past. hugs jan xx

Sandra Haight
Date: 7/2/2024 10:07:00 AM

Thank you so much, Jan, for your supportive and kind comments on my poem. Yes, I have written 3 or 4! Our tree was very personal to those who live here. Hugs, Sandr

Arthur Vaso

Date: 7/2/2024 12:31:00 AM

Loved this, losing the past also pains me.

Sandra Haight
Date: 7/2/2024 10:08:00 AM

Thank you very much, Arthur, for your visit and supportive comment. I appreciate it very much. Sandra

Nette Onclaud

Date: 7/1/2024 7:46:00 PM

losing teasures like this tree can be devastating for all...your artwords invoke deep sentiments and poignant expressions...a beauty, sandra!

Sandra Haight
Date: 7/2/2024 10:14:00 AM

Yes, Nette. This tree was such an important part of our community for many years. I am so pleased that you identified and enjoyed my sad sentiments! Thanks so much! Hugs, Sandra