10/30/2026
Did you know that two of the largest American chestnut trees in the country are growing right here in Tumwater?
Planted in 1846 on pioneer settler Jesse Ferguson's farm, these remarkable trees survived a devastating disease that wiped out nearly all mature American chestnuts in the eastern United States. Thanks to a little geographic good fortune, Tumwater's trees escaped the blight and are still producing chestnuts today!
And they're BIG! 🌰 The larger tree measures:
🌳 Nearly 20 feet around the trunk
🌳 More than 93 feet tall
🌳 Almost 95 feet across its leafy crown
Recognized as Champion Trees by American Forests and designated Tumwater Heritage Trees in 2023, these living landmarks have quite a story to tell.
🍂 Their leaves may be falling for winter, but these giants are worth visiting any time of year!
📍 Find them at Mills & Mills Memorial Park, 5725 Littlerock Road SW in Tumwater.
📸 Although Tumwater’s chestnut trees are now losing their foliage for the winter, they offer giant clouds of greenery throughout the rest of the year. Photo courtesy of Mills & Mills.
