On the Chopping Block: Black Locust, 3rd & Walnut Streets

Black locust, Robinia pseudoacacia, at 3rd & Walnut Streets in the Benjamin Rush Garden.

A native tree with a fascinating natural history, black locusts are used sparingly as a street tree, more commonly found along the perimeters of a wooded area, and planted in a campus, cemetery, or park. I find everything about this tree appealing and interesting. This one at 3rd & Walnut, part of the historic Benjamin Rush Garden, is a great example of one of its many distinct characteristics: its shaggy, super-ropy bark.

Unfortunately, this particular black locust is on the chopping block. The entire garden is scheduled to be demolished and turned into the Bicentennial Bell site. The bell was gifted to the U.S. by Great Britain in 1976 and really hasn’t been seen since. According to the National Park Service, “The new setting will feature the Bicentennial Bell surrounded by pathways, lights, and flower beds. The goal is to have this project finished and open to the public in time to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of our nation in 2026.”

I will provide updates to the construction project.

Feb. 2024