The large tree in front of you is a catalpa tree. This particular catalpa tree located on the grounds of the Michigan State Capitol is said to be the largest and possibly the oldest living catalpa tree in the United States.
Although the exact age of this tree is not known, the tree appears in photographs of the Capitol while it was originally under construction. The Capitol building was dedicated in January 1879, so this tree is at least 145 years old!
Catalpas are very adaptable and tough trees, having well adapted or naturalized in many parts of the United States. They produce lots of shade and are fast growers. This catalpa tree is over 100 feet tall and the crown is over 85 feet across.
Originally, a companion catalpa tree was planted north of the sidewalk (although it no longer survives). It is believed that the trees were given these prominent spots in recognition of the catalpa's role in the settlement of the state. Catalpa wood, which does not easily rot, was favored by settlers.
A decorative fence surrounds the tree to prevent visitors from climbing on it and also to prevent compaction of the tree's roots. The tree has also been provided with special supports for its largest limbs. Please do not attempt to cross the fence to touch or climb the tree.
We have attempted to make this virtual cache wheelchair accessible and you should be able to complete it from the sidewalk.
The Logging Requirements for This Virtual Cache:
Please post a photo of yourself, a member of your team, your GPS, or a personal item with the Caltapa in the background along with your found log (example photo below). If you are unwilling or unable to post a photo, as an alternative, you will find a statue nearby and you will need to send us the name of the governor along with the contents of the six lines of text on the east side of the statue under his name.
We hope that you enjoyed your visit!
Congrats to ScouterSteve on being the first to complete the logging requirements!
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.