Vassallo: Oxford Trees Inspire Life, Beauty

Trees shade the walking area behind the J.D. Williams Library.

Did you ever consider the influence that trees have had on your life? Think about for a moment all of the most beautiful places you’ve ever been aside from beaches. I bet trees are definitely impacting your answer.

The Ole Miss campus has a tremendous tree inventory which is the primary reason The Grove is so popular and famous. Did you know that there are two trees on the campus that are named in honor of famous Americans? George and Martha Washington are the honorees. The two Willow Oaks were planted in 1932 and are now about 70 feet tall. I’m going to be cruel to those who don’t know where they are and make you hunt for them. You’ll know when you find them as there are plaques beneath each.

Growing up in Nashville (I know I am biased), but I believe honestly that Belle Meade is the most beautiful residential neighborhood in the country. The trees are the reason and this May is the month to drive down Belle Meade Boulevard. and marvel at the beauty! If you have never done this, you will be amazed at the landscaping.

Augusta National is also most recognized for all of the diversity in the tree presentation. In fact, each of the 18 holes is named after a tree planted on that respective fairway. April is also the perfect month to host the the Masters as nature comes to life during this month.

Returning to Oxford, both North and South Lamar are the signature streets (I prefer the descriptive noun “lanes”) that make the city so attractive and special. Just five miles from the Square is an incredible property by the name of Castle Hill that is strikingly beautiful, again because of the trees. The 42 acre site and the 80 acre lake combine to make Castle Hill and the Colonel’s Quarters one of Mississippi’s prettiest places period. Drive out some day around dusk and you will see what I’m describing.

I was at a home recently of a friend who lives on College Hill. Upon arrival on that day, he was planting 18 trees throughout his property. He was discussing with his wife how wide they would spread at maturity, therefore keeping the distance between each sufficient. We laughed that when maturity occurs, we won’t be around to observe. However, a future generation will be.

You might want to consider planting a special tree in a special place this spring. For those who took the time to do this (D.A.R.) on campus in 1932, we are now appreciating the natural beauty some 83 years later and in that respect for many more years to follow.

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. Currently, Steve is a highly successful leader in the real estate business who lives in Oxford with his wife Rosie. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at (985) 852-7745.