Charter Oak

The Charter Oak was an exceptionally large white oak tree growing on Wyllys Hill in Hartford, Connecticut, from around the 12th or 13th century until it fell during a storm in 1856. Connecticut colonists hid Connecticut's Royal Charter of 1662 within the tree's hollow to thwart its confiscation by the English governor-general. The oak was viewed as a symbol of American independence and was commemorated on the Connecticut State Quarter. It was also depicted on a commemorative half dollar and a po...