Skip to content

The Witness Tree Traditional Cache

Hidden : 6/10/2008
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

The cache container is a small jar wrapped in black tape. It is only big enough for log book and small items. Bring your own pen or pencil. To find it will involve a short walk on flat terrain with some grass and weeds to negotiate in summer.

Bureau County's Witness Tree is a 250-year-old bur oak which has served as a landmark and meeting site for at least 200 years. This mammoth oak's burly trunk measures 14 feet in circumference with a branch spread of over 80 feet. The bur oak is a seminal Midwestern prairie tree with acorns so large that only one can fit in the palm of the hand.

As early as the 19th century Pottawatomie Indians, led by Chief Shabbona, held council at the tree with members of the Fox and Sauk tribes. The tree stands along the Old Indian Trail that once ran through northern Illinois, parallel and just north of today's I 80. In 1944, local farmers donated small parcels of land surrounding the Witness Tree to ensure its preservation.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Xvyyrq jvgu Jvyy Ebtref va Cg. Oneebj Nynfxn cynar penfu.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)