Collection: Bent Tree | Clayton State University Archives

Scope and Contents

Material in the collection in clude written documentation, photographs, and artifacts detailing the iconic campus landmark and the tradition of Bent Tree.

Dates

Existence: 1969 - 2012

Historical

This collection contains materials documenting the tree with a unique bend that became a beloved campus meeting spot and location marker. The tree grew on the site just outside of what is now the University Center building. This special tree became the namesake for the long-standing student newspaper publication during the early 1970s. On July 23, 2001 the tree was cut down to construct the Baker University Center building. At the time, the unoffical University arborist (Russell Camp -Clayton State's grounds foreman) determined the tree to have been 90 years old. A casting of the tree's unique trunk bend was taken to create a statue of this iconic tree to commemorate its meaning to the campus community.