Utah has many unique landmarks, both natural and man-made, and quite a few of them are instantly recognizable. Delicate Arch is well-known all over the world, as is the Great Salt Lake, and everyone knows exactly where to find the Bingham Canyon Mine, which is the largest open-mine pit in the world.
There’s a much smaller, and lesser-known historical landmark in Provo — a historic tree that sits on the grounds of the Historic Utah County Courthouse. It’s a natural landmark, but one man certainly had a hand in its creation.
The Historic Utah County Courthouse was completed in 1926. Designed by architect Architect Joseph Nelson, it’s a beautiful building constructed in the neo-classical style.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr Address: 51 South University Avenue, Provo, UT, 84601
When it was completed, the public was in awe. The building cost $576,495.30, and it’s a work of art. Its spacious, open design includes features like Alaskan and Tennessee marble and granite from Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Ben PL/flickr
When it came time to design the grounds for the courthouse, employees Roni Christopherson and Elmer Pulley were given the task of purchasing the trees to be planted. They traveled to a nursery in Ogden, where the owner gave them a special gift.
Jacob Barlow/Google
The Ulmus Americana is an extremely rare tree. It’s a combination of an elm tree and weeping willow grafted together, and it’s said that there’s not another tree like it anywhere in the country.
Dillon H/Google
The tree is located on the east side of the courthouse, and it covers the space with its leafy tabletop. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the tables underneath; the trees provide plenty of shade.
Jay Chester/Google
Despite their best efforts, landscape experts have been unable to create another tree like this one. Seedlings from the tree grow, but not in the same tabletop shape.
Dillon H/Google The tree has survived all kinds of diseases and pests throughout the years. Ladybugs are brought in to eat the aphids that try to attack the tree, and it’s survived microbursts and construction all around it. You’ll see signs asking you not to climb this tree — please comply so that we can continue to enjoy it for years to come.
In the fall, it takes seven dump trucks to haul away all the leaves that fall from the tree. Because the branches grow outward instead of upward, supports are places under the branches to keep them from breaking.
Zanna McNeil/Google
Have you seen this unique tree in person?
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Address: 51 South University Avenue, Provo, UT, 84601
Ben PL/flickr
Jacob Barlow/Google
Dillon H/Google
Jay Chester/Google
The tree has survived all kinds of diseases and pests throughout the years. Ladybugs are brought in to eat the aphids that try to attack the tree, and it’s survived microbursts and construction all around it. You’ll see signs asking you not to climb this tree — please comply so that we can continue to enjoy it for years to come.
Zanna McNeil/Google
There’s another “tree” that’s a landmark in Utah. Check out this man-made tree that you’ll find along I-80 in between Salt Lake City and Wendover.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
