Historic Trees Removed from Oxford’s Lamar Avenue

Oxford city officials announced the removal of several historic trees along Lamar Avenue this weekend. The decision came after experts assessed the trees and determined their damage was too severe to repair, posing safety concerns for residents and visitors.

The trees had stood for decades, serving as landmarks and witnesses to the town’s history. Residents described them as part of the community’s identity, with some recalling their childhoods spent beneath their branches during Halloween and other celebrations.

Over the years, the trees witnessed key moments in Oxford’s history, from movie premieres at the Lyric Theatre to presidential debates on the town square. They also provided shade during hot summers and shelter during storms, becoming integral to the town’s landscape and culture.

Officials expressed regret over the loss but emphasized that safety was the priority. They said the trees’ roots and structural integrity had deteriorated to the point where intervention was no longer feasible. The removal marks the end of an era for Lamar Avenue and the community that cherished them.

City leaders assured residents that the history and memories associated with the trees remain a part of Oxford’s fabric. They said the town’s stories and spirit will continue to thrive in the area, even without the trees that once stood as guardians of the community.

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