Evergreen: The Trees That Shaped America

As the forests become thinner and giant trees suffer losses, author Trent Preszler takes the reader through a course in history, looking at how the evergreens have been used and abused. Recounting the piney fragrance of the formerly traditional holiday Christmas tree, he describes how it is now being replaced by more affordable plastic replicas, which do not shed needles. However, there is still a traditional search for the most outstanding giant evergreen to decorate Rockefeller Plaza. It is interesting to note that the Pilgrims sought wealth in wood when they journeyed to the new land, since medieval England had lost its forests. Strong wood was essential for ships, and tall, strong trees were primarily for the masts. Ancient cultures used the tallest tree trunks for their temples; Venice is underpinned by clever wooden foundations. Look around and note the residues of evergreens in utility poles, railway ties, firewood used on Mississippi steamboats, early airplanes, and think of all the structures requiring the strength of the pines and cedars consumed. Tragically, giant sequoias were hewn for display, and time will not permit their regeneration in our lifetime. We talk of oil and coal as energy resources, but these are the ghosts of ancient trees, while our current trees continue to be consumed. This historic tour through our evergreen connection is revelatory and refreshing.