The grand old pecan tree on Armstrong Parkway at Preston Road, known as the Million Dollar Monarch, was a true treasure in Highland Park. This mammoth tree was, at its full maturity, approximately 75 feet wide by 75 feet tall and lived to be more than 104 years old. The removal of the tree was necessary nearly two years ago for safety reasons because of its large size and fragile state.
After the tree was taken down, former Town of Highland Park Mayor Margo Goodwin generously offered to have a podium made from the wood of the Pecan tree to give to each HPISD school and to the HPISD Clements Leadership Center. When completed, a small plate recognizing the source of the wood and The Town of Highland Park will be affixed to the side of each podium. Goodwin attended the Aug. 16 HPISD Board of Trustees meeting where Trustees recognized the gift and thanked her and the Town of HP for their generosity.
The tree was named the Million Dollar Monarch after someone, about 100 years ago, offered $1 million to buy a lot that included the tree. The offer was turned down by the landowner, who wanted to protect the tree. Dallas developer George Kessler was then asked to create a boulevard where the tree would be featured as a significant entry point. The first holiday tree-lighting ceremony of the Million Dollar Monarch took place in 1927 and happened every year after that, except during World War II and the 1973 energy crisis.
The historic podiums made from the landmark tree will be used at many HPISD meetings, events and functions held throughout the district at all eight of its schools and the Clements Leadership Center for years to come.
Photos courtesy of Lee Hite and Lone Star Library Annex.