Historic tree now only a stump

A part of St. Charles history came crashing down last week.

A massive American Elm tree located in the Jaycee Park was cut down last Tuesday after local conservation officials deemed it was a threat to public safety.

Arborists first treated the tree for a highly destructive Elm disease last Spring, but reported that the disease had overtaken the tree earlier this month.

Parks and Recreation Department Assistant Director Chris Atkinson says officials have never been able to confirm exactly how old the tree is, but it could be upwards of 260 years.

The district kept the wood it chopped down and Atkinson says department officials are currently deciding what mementos to make it into. A few of the possibilities are park benches, park balance beams, Christmas ornaments, and coasters.