The Birthing Tree

This white oak tree is truly a Tennessee treasure. Even in winter with no leaves, its’ wide arms surround one as it seems to whisper of strength and serenity though storms and troubles come. Oh the stories of those who have enjoyed the protection of this sturdy tree…

Beautiful tree and such a part of history!

This tree is absolutely amazing. Thank you for protecting it.

This tree is so beautiful!!

Quick stop for some history on one GIANT tree!

A very unusual tree with a very interesting history behind it. This tree is estimated to be well over 250 years old and was used as a stopping point and resting point for those traveling through the area on the Old Kentucky Road. It is said that more than one woman has given birth while resting under this tree waiting for supplies or for friends to catch up with them.

Birthing Tree – City of McMinnville TN

Birthing Tree Standing as a silent sentinel to the town, this enormous white oak (Quercus alba) welcomes travelers into the city of McMinnville. While only 81 feet tall, the crown spreads 130 feet, with several of the lower limbs larger than many trees. However, it is not its size that gives this white oak notoriety; the Birthing Tree is steeped in local folklore.

The tree was a local landmark for settlers passing through the area. Travelers from North Carolina, Kentucky and Virginia would journey through Knoxville on the Old Kentucky Trail. These trails converged at Rock Island (the closest city at that time) and then passed under the spreading branches of this giant tree before continuing south to Alabama. The huge oak was a well-known meeting place for these weary travelers. Some waited for long periods of time for fellow settlers to join them. Others lingered because of bad weather or lack of supplies.

Many local families also recount stories of grandparents who knew someone born at the tree due to the extended delays. At one time it was even thought to have been part of the infamous “Trail of Tears” on the march to Oklahoma, although local historians discount this. However, the tree has been known for over 150 years is the subject of numerous local stories and rumors. Many family meetings have been held at the tree.

The Birthing Tree stands across the street from the McMinnville River Park Hospital at 1559 Sparta Highway (Hwy. 70) on a private residence. The owners donated the tree to the City of McMinnville in 2012. American Heritage Trees collected seeds from this tree in fall of 2015.

One of America's great White Oaks. Stop by & say hello! Be gentle with her!

This is an absolutely beautiful tree With so much history take the time stop get out and just walk around and take it all in You will be amazed

Such a wonderful tree! Truly unique!

In the words of the general In the movie "avatar" -that's one big d@mn tree- one thing i dont like about it is the life of the tree is strung up to keep itself alive. It just doesnt look as magical as the tree of wisdom. But its gods magic and that's so real.

Great spot to stop and reflect and learn a little bit of history.

Historic spot in McMinnville,Warren Co., TN. An old pioneer trail ran by it. I am not sure what kind of Oak it is. It looks like what, in Florida they call Live Oaks. We have some on our farm that look similar, but not as big and old.

Comfortable and peaceful place to set in the shade what is the prettiest and probably the oldest tree in McMinnville Tn. Called the birthing tree because local legend says it was where mothers would come to give birth back in the 19th century. If true I couldn't say but if I was a woman back then it would be where I went.

I have a story that I wrote about a woman born under this tree. She was a future 3rd great grandmother to myself. Several families were traveling on a wagon train from North Carolina to Henderson county, Ky.

Beautiful and so neat

This is an absolutely beautiful tree, but that is not what you go for. I stopped by on my way back from the caverns just to see. This is a place where you can be close to history.

Beautiful old , if only she could talk

This tree is magical. The sheer size of the tree is breathtaking. This tree is definitely a sight to see, touch and visit.

Very cool to see this very old tree still standing, definitely worth the stop...