Southern Live Oak Tree…. What did you see?
In the picturesque Low country blows Spanish moss from the majestic limbs of Southern Live Oak Trees. Whimsical in stature, these trees provide a “picture perfect” image for those with an eclectic view of nature and its beauty. They can be seen decorating long driveways leading to beautiful plantation homes, covering the sidewalks of bustling downtowns appealing to tourist, and standing firm in rural settings. With limbs shaped like those of curving octopus’s tentacles, it adds another attention-grabbing creation from the man above. The existence of these trees last lifetimes you and I will never witness. That being said, I pose the question to the Southern Live Oak Tree. What did you see?
It has been reported by several historians, anywhere from 40 to 60 percent of the Africans who were brought to America during the slave trade entered through the Lowcountry. The slave trade began in America in 1619, slavery was abolished in 1865. This means 151 years ago some of these trees were planted in the same place in which they stand today. The landscape for the most part was much different due to the development of towns and cities, but the fact remains the surviving trees witnessed a lot. While talking to a Native American friend hiking in the mountains of Western North Carolina, I remember the words “the trees are alive just as much as you and I”. That being said, I pose the question to the Southern Live Oak Tree. What did you see?
Did you see the vessels arrive from Africa or the Caribbean? If so, what was the facial expression and condition of our ancestors being ushered off of the boat? I know these are not questions trees can realistically answer but they were there. These trees witnessed the indigenous Yamassee Tribe cultivate a sustainable life before the European invasion. These trees witnessed the enslaved being forced to auction blocks for profitable means by their oppressors.
These trees witnessed children crying aloud, looking back one last time at their mother as they were transported to their new master, leaving a generational void. These trees continue to produce oxygen for the descendants of the Yamassee Indians who fought in the “Yamassee War” against British settlers. Unfortunately, in 1830 further upstate other tribes were forced to leave their land to embark on the trail of tears via the Indian Removal Act. Yes, these trees may symbol perseverance, longevity, and strength but they have also seen their fair share of selfish colonization and marginalization towards people of color. Since your roots have stood the test of time and rest is needed i will not hold you much longer.
When the enslaved worked 12 plus hours in the field if you could, would you have provided shade for them? Any amount of shade would have been appreciated. What about when it was 1 am in the morning and the wife of the enslaver was sleep, giving the greenlight for the oppressor to enter the quarters to rape his slaves. Did it make you want to snatch him up with your tentacle like branches and whip his a$$ to protect the enslaved? I know these are things realistically trees can’t answer but they were there.
Lastly, when you had to be the prop for my ancestors who were hoisted on your thick branches to be hung, how did it feel? While looking back and reading this entry I realize you have experienced just as much trauma as my people. God bless you and maybe in a dream you can answer the question …what did you see?
This blog was inspired by a recent trip to the Lowcountry of Georgia and South Carolina. Many original inhabitants of African descent are losing their land at an alarming rate. Please let’s keep them in our prayers and support any way you can.
“Tenki Tenki” as Queen Quet of the Gullah Geechee Nation would say.
