Jesse Owens Olympic Oak Tree
The historical significance of the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak tree continues to hold meaning for the James Ford Rhodes High School, the Cleveland Public School System, the Greater Cleveland Community, and the world at large. The school's track coach, Mr. Terrence Owens, is a cousin of Jesse Owens. And the Cleveland Public Schools hold an annual Jesse Owens Invitational Track Meet at the athletic complex adjacent to the courtyard where the tree grows. But most importantly, this tree provides a living symbol of Jesse Owens's victory over the racism and hatred of Hitler and his Nazi party and man's ongoing struggle to gain victory over racism and tyranny.

Lauren Lanphear (lt) with Mr. Tryone Owens, track coach at James Ford Rhodes High School

Jesse Owens' Olympic Oak - James Ford Rhodes High School

Jesse Owen's (center ft) and US Olympic track teammates with Oak seedlings

The Tree Care Industry Association recognized Forest City Tree Protection with an Award of Excellence in 2003 for its efforts to preserve and protect the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak Tree.

Crews took great care while pruning, cabling, and performing root therapy treatments to ensure that hoses, equipment, and cuttings did not harm or damage the appearance and shape of the tree. Branches were carefully removed and disposed. Crews followed exacting safety standards, and stayed watchful for situations potentially harmful to the tree. Given the very public nature of the tree and its close proximity to people, structures, and vehicles a good deal of planning and coordination was required ahead of time. During the course of the work itself, great care had to be taken to ensure the safety of people and protection of structures. We also involved administrators, teachers, and students in the process so as to build and uplift their appreciation of the tree and its future care.

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