Territorial Burr Oak Survey Tree

One of Whitewater's earliest landmarks, dating to around or before 1800, it is a tangible link to the exploration and settlement of this area by non-Indian settlers. The use of survey trees demonstrate the politics and governmental issues of organizing and identifying land ownership, both public and private.

This particular tree served as the fixed point from which US federal land surveyors platted the village of Whitewater in 1836. Due to its age and eventual death, it will need to be removed for the sake of public safety, this landmark also includes the site upon which it sits.

Long called "The Territorial Burr Oak," it is a a bur oak "quercus macrocarpa" and its spelling of the word "Burr" is in line with its historical usage. This tree remains the sole living thing from Whitewater's founding in 1936, where it was one of two trees used by federal land surveyors.

The home of the terrace on which the tree sits belonged to Rosepha Trippe--one of Whitewater's earliest white and most significant settlers. She arrived in 1836 from New York with her husband, Dr. James Trippe, who himself created the first mill in Whitewater that is itself a historical landmark.

Since it's original use, it has continued to be used as a source of celebration for public events. Near the tree, facing the south, is a plaque and marker stone, which were donated by the local volunteer fire department in 1962.

Allison, R Bruce. Every Root An Anchor: Wisconsin's Famous and Historic Trees. WI Historical Press, 2005.

Cartwright, Carol L. Architectural and Historical Survey of Whitewater, Wisconsin. Edition Report. City of Whitewater: The Landmarks Commission, 2008.

Whitewater Historical Society Committee. "One Hundred and Twenty-Fifth Anniversary, 1837-1962." Whitewater Historical Society (City of Whitewater). pg 7