The Druid and the City: Exploring Cincinnati’s Ancient Tree Groves

Abstract

The Druid and the City: Exploring Cincinnati’s Ancient Tree Groves Over the past 200 years, most of the forestland in the eastern United States has at one time either been logged for timber, cultivated for agriculture, or developed into urban and suburban spaces. Though millions of wooded acres still exist in national forests and preserves, very little of that land should be considered undisturbed or old-growth. Given these realities, it may be surprising to learn that pockets of very old trees, or groves, still survive in American cities and suburbs. A few of these remnant ancient groves thrive within miles of the burgeoning metropolis of Cincinnati. “The Druid and the City: Exploring Cincinnati’s Ancient Groves” will discuss the histories of two of these plots: Caldwell Preserve and California Woods. Using archival photos in concert with early written responses to each wood, “The Druid and the City” will trace the preservation of these unique terrains as it tells the story of the people who acted to preserve the places for future generations to study and enjoy. In addition to reviewing the past of these groves, “The Druid and the City” will explore their importance to Cincinnati’s local outdoor community as well as the forests’ connection with the greater Appalachian region