Missouri’s Oldest Thing Has Been Growing For 400 Years

When you think about the oldest thing in Missouri, your mind probably jumps to a historic building, a landmark, a lake, or maybe even a town. But believe it or not, the oldest thing in the state is none of those, and the real answer might just make you scratch your head.

Did You Know? The Oldest Thing in Missouri Isn’t What You’d Expect

It’s a tree!

That’s right, the oldest thing in Missouri isn’t man-made at all. Known simply as The Big Tree, this legendary bur oak stands tall in Boone County, near the Missouri River. It’s believed to be nearly 400 years old and has seen centuries of history.

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If you guessed a tree, give yourself a gold star. I’ll admit, my brain went straight to a landmark or some historic site, but sometimes nature holds the real record-breakers. The Big Tree is also the proud owner of being tied for National Champion of the largest tree in the Nation.

Where Can You Find The Big Tree in Missouri?

The tree itself is located on pricate farm land which, but you can access the treet from Bur Oak Road in Boone County, Missouri. Its also close to the Katy Trail State Park which is popular among bicyclist and hikers.

Read Also: Epic Missouri Trail Named One of the Top 15 Parks in America

The Big Tree is definitely a tourist attraction, so if you ever find yourself in Boone County, be sure to snap a picture with the oldest thing in the Show-Me State.