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White House Magnolia Tree Linked to Andrew Jackson Set for Removal

President Trump announces the removal of the deteriorating historic tree, citing safety concerns, with plans to replace it and preserve its wood.

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A historic southern magnolia, planted by U.S President Andrew Jackson in 1829, frames United States President Barack Obama's Marine One helicopter as it departs the South Lawn of the White House for a day trip to Charlotte, North Carolina in Washington April 15, 2015.
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Overview

  • The nearly 200-year-old magnolia tree, believed to have been planted by Andrew Jackson, will be removed next week due to its hazardous condition.
  • President Trump stated the tree's wood will be preserved for potential future uses, emphasizing efforts to protect historical elements of the White House grounds.
  • The tree, associated with Jackson's late wife Rachel, has been a symbolic feature of the White House South Lawn but has suffered damage over the years, including from a 1994 plane crash.
  • The National Park Service has noted that the tree's connection to Jackson is rooted in folklore, with photographic evidence of its presence only dating back to the 1860s.
  • Public reactions to the announcement have been mixed, with some supporting the safety-driven decision and others lamenting the loss of a historic landmark.