The Dogwood Tree

Jefferson County may be the home to the largest and possibly the oldest Dogwood tree in the State.

The tree is located at the Union Chapel Cemetery, the first burial at this cemetery was December 29, 1895.

It is unknown to me the exact date the tree was planted but would guess as the dates provide a timeline between 1895 and 1914, more likley between 1896 and 1913 either way the tree would be at least 100 years old.

The tree was planted by Rebecca Green she was born September 26, 1846 and died January 8, 1914 she is buried at Union Chapel Cemetery.

In the 1900 Census Rebecca Green was living in Field Township with her husband Francis M. Green and  seven children. According to the IL Statewide marriage index Rebecca Clark and Francis M. Green were married May 7, 1884 in Jefferson County, IL.

In the 1880 Census Rebecca Clark is living in Field Township as the head of household with two sons ages 6 and 5.

The IL Statewide marriage index shows a Vestal A. Clark was married to Rebecca Penacuff on June 5, 1874.

This Dogwood tree has been submitted to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Forest Resources Division a State District Forester was sent out to take an official measurement of the tree and it was deemed a State Champion.