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The Balmville Tree v2 Traditional Geocache

Hidden : 6/9/2011
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
1 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:

There was a previous cache here that has been archived. Out of all the places in Newburgh, THIS one needs a cache.

You are looking for a magnetic cache. It is not in or on the stone wall, you do not have to touch any stones to seek this cache. You do not need to enter the area if the gates where to be closed.

This is the smallest state forest in New York, and as such I had the perfect container for this forest, I hope you enjoy it. After finding the cache, why not take a hike around the forest and enjoy the views - make sure you bring some trail mix and hydration :p


The Balmville Tree is an old-growth eastern cottonwood growing at the intersection of River Road, Balmville Road and Commonwealth Avenue in Balmville, New York, a hamlet within the Town of Newburgh. It is the oldest tree of that species in the Eastern United States. It was thought at first to be a Balm of Gilead tree, and lent that name to the surrounding community.

Local folklore has it that the tree grew when George Washington planted his walking stick while he and the Continental Army were encamped in nearby Newburgh during the final years of the Revolutionary War, but core samples of the tree have dated its growth to 1699, well before American independence. Franklin Roosevelt often came to visit the tree.

In the mid 20th century, it began to suffer the effects of its advanced age and vandalism. In the mid-1970s arborists recommended it be removed as a traffic hazard. However, community groups led by Richard Severo, whose house overlooked the tree, were able to save it, citing its historic value. It is 25 feet (7.6 m) in circumference at its base, and 83 feet (25 m) high. It once reached as high as 110 feet (33. 5 m), but its crown had to be trimmed after extensive damage from Hurricane Floyd in 1999
Wiki page

DO NOT DISTURB THE ROCK WALL WHEN SEEKING THE CACHE. Rocks are not magnetic :-) Take the time to read the plaques, very nice History lesson about the tree. Use caution on the walkway if it is wet, it can get a little slippery.

There is room for 1 or 2 cars on the east side of the tree.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

ZNTARGVP - qbja gura hc

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)