The Atlas Obscura Podcast National Parks Week: Discovery Tree
Jun 6, 2025
Explore California's Discovery Tree, a giant sequoia that sparked conservation efforts and reflects on the challenges facing national parks today. Discover its fascinating history, from commercialization during the gold rush to being a symbol of environmental awareness. Dive into the meticulous art of creating rubbings from the tree stump, capturing its unique features. The hosts celebrate National Parks Week, emphasizing the joy of discovery and the importance of appreciating the natural world.
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Discovery Tree's Historic Tale
- Augustus T. Dowd stumbled across a massive grove of giant sequoias in Northern California in 1852.
- The largest tree, Discovery Tree, inspired both wonder and exploitation after being cut down and turned into a tourist attraction.
Tree Fueled Conservation Movement
- The destruction of the Discovery Tree sparked outrage and helped catalyze early conservation efforts.
- This movement led to the creation of Yosemite as America's first state park, a precursor to the national park system.
Exploitation Highlights Preservation Need
- Early commercial exploitation of the Discovery Tree included dances on its stump and a hollow bark room exhibited across cities.
- Such uses highlighted the tension between profit and preservation, awakening public consciousness about nature protection.