On October 15, Lowcountry Land Trust and the City of Charleston had the honor of welcoming the International Oak Society to the Angel Oak Preserve as part of their “Oaks of the Carolinas Tour.” This impressive group of arborists, scientists, gardeners, and oak enthusiasts from across the globe—including attendees from Argentina, Germany, Italy, the UK, and Uruguay—gathered to celebrate the natural and cultural significance of one of the world’s most iconic oak trees.
The Angel Oak, a centuries-old Southern live oak that has captured hearts across the Lowcountry, became the focus of an international conversation about conservation, stewardship, and cultural heritage. For the Lowcountry community, this tree is more than a natural wonder—it’s a symbol of both conservation and preservation. The International Oak Society’s visit emphasized the importance of sharing this local treasure with a global audience.
“This tree holds deep meaning for the people of South Carolina, but this visit reminded us that its importance stretches far beyond our borders. To be caretakers of the Angel Oak, its surrounding forest, and the future publicly accessible, 44-acre nature preserve alongside the City of Charleston is a profound responsibility, and sharing its story with the world was a special opportunity,” said Samantha Siegel, Lowcountry Land Trust’s Angel Oak Preserve Director.
The day’s events highlighted the power of collaboration in preserving the Angel Oak. Bartlett Tree Experts, who provide arboricultural care for the tree, sponsored the Society’s tour. Cameron Rickett, the Angel Oak’s arborist from Bartlett, who works hand in hand with the City of Charleston’s arborist, David Grant, shared his expertise on the tree’s care and conservation. He emphasized the simple yet effective approach needed to maintain this historic oak, thanks in large part to the 35 acres surrounding the tree that were protected over a decade ago.
“If the surrounding forest hadn’t been saved thanks in part to all of the community partners and members that came together, we’d be looking at mixed-use buildings encroaching on the tree’s root system and wetlands,” Siegel noted. This collaboration between the City of Charleston, Bartlett Tree Experts, and Lowcountry Land Trust shows the teamwork required to safeguard this natural and cultural landmark.
While the International Oak Society brings a wealth of scientific knowledge about oak trees, their visit also reinforced the connection between cultural heritage and conservation. The Angel Oak is not just a biological marvel—it is interwoven with the history and identity of the Lowcountry. The Society’s members, with their unique insights, enriched the narrative around the tree’s past, present, and future, ensuring that both scientific and cultural stories were honored.
The International Oak Society’s visit is a new chapter in the Angel Oak’s legacy, marking the beginning of an exciting relationship between global oak enthusiasts and one of South Carolina’s most beloved landmarks. As Lowcountry Land Trust continues to create the Angel Oak Preserve, events like this highlight the importance of its long-term conservation, not only for the land but also for the rich cultural history it embodies.
