ITTIWAN OAK ON DANIEL ISLAND NAMED 2015 SC HERITAGE TREE
Dedication planned for December 14 in Great Oak Park
(DANIEL ISLAND, S.C.) – A grand Live Oak on Daniel Island dubbed the “Ittiwan Oak” in honor of the area’s Native American ties has been named the 2015 Heritage Tree by Trees SC, a collaboration of individuals, organizations, and agencies dedicated to our state’s trees.
The tree, located in Great Oak Park near the banks of Ralston Creek, was designated as the “Ittiwan Oak” in March of 2015 by the Daniel Island Historical Society in recognition of the Etiwan Tribe that once called the island home. The name “Ittiwan” is among the early titles used by the tribe. The tree stands in an area in which a high concentration of Indian artifacts have been found by archaeologists. Descendants of the tribe now live in the Carnes Crossroads/Wassamasaw area between Summerville and Moncks Corner.
Daniel Island Historical Society President Brenda Thorn nominated the tree for the award, which identifies, celebrates and recognizes remarkable trees in South Carolina. Nominees are judged on three criteria: the tree’s historical or cultural significance to the community or state of South Carolina, demonstrated community value/appreciation of the tree, and the description of the tree’s maintenance plan. Past winners include the Angel Oak on John’s Island, the Boundary Street Oak Allee in Aiken, the Horseshoe Oak on the University of South Carolina campus, and the Cherry Hill Plantation Live Oak in Beaufort. The Ittiwan Oak, with its circumference of 15 feet and canopy of 114 feet, is also a member of the national Live Oak Society.
Representatives from Trees SC, the Daniel Island Historical Society, the Daniel Island Property Owners Association, descendants of the Etiwan Tribe, and other community members will gather for a special dedication ceremony on Monday, December 14 at 10:30 a.m. at the base of the Ittiwan Oak in Great Oak Park. The site is located at the intersection of Creek Landing Street and Rhoden Island Drive adjacent to the Ralston Creek Boat Landing. An unveiling of a commemorative plaque signifying the tree’s award will be part of the ceremony. The public is welcome to attend. For additional information on the award, visit www.treesc.org.
