Some of you may remember this cache as a mystery cache that was the final bonus cache in my tree series. It has been reincarnated as a traditional cache and remains a part of the series. You are welcome to find and log it once more!. Unlike other caches in the series, however, it is not hanging from the tree in the title, but somewhere around the base of it.
The Seven Sisters Oak
Not far from this cache is the largest Southern live oak in the country, The Seven Sisters Oak. The additional waypoint provided with this cache will take you to the street adjacent to the property where it can be seen. At the waypoint, facing the lake, if you look to your right, you will behold the magnificence of this beautiful behemoth. Important: The tree is on private property. You may drive by and view it, but do NOT enter the property. The owners are accustomed to people driving by to view the tree. It is a truly impressive sight.
More Info:
This national champion live oak tree is estimated to be 1,500 years old. It has a circumference of 467 inches, a height of 68 feet, and an impressive crown spread of 139 feet, making this the only national champion with a crown spread twice as wide as the height of the tree.
Contrary to many beliefs, the tree was not named after the seven main trunks that make up the tree. The live oak was originally named the Doby’s Seven Sisters Oak tree by one of its former owners, Carole Hendry Doby, who is one of seven sisters. The name changed to Seven Sisters Live Oak when the tree was registered with the Live Oak Society, a unique organization whose members are all live oak trees. Since 1968, the historic Seven Sisters Oak has served as the president of this society of trees, and has been the national champion for almost 30 years
For years, the eligibility of the Seven Sisters Oak as a Live Oak Society member and principal officer was disputed because it was believed to be several separate trees growing together. In 1976, after inspection by federal foresters, the tree was proved to have a single root system; and its status as President was accepted without further contest, by virtue of its girth (the greatest measurement of all live oaks then registered with the Society).