The Major Oak, the iconic 1,000-year-old tree in Sherwood Forest, has died after failing to produce leaves for the first time in its millennia-long life. The tree, long associated with the legend of Robin Hood, had inspired wonder for generations. Readers shared their memories with the Guardian, describing childhood adventures and a deep connection to history.
Childhood Memories and the Robin Hood Legend
Joanna de Graaf from Leicestershire wrote: 'I grew up in Nottingham and we visited Sherwood Forest quite often as a family. I can remember being so excited to actually be inside the Major oak where Robin Hood and his merry men had hidden (and, for a little girl in the 1960s, Maid Marian too).' She added that she later took her own children and international friends to see the tree.
Rosie Emery, who spent her early childhood at Thoresby Hall near the forest, said: 'I loved it there. I credit my career teaching children how all of life is connected to the hours I spent sitting inside that wonderful tree. I would dream about Robin Hood and Maid Marian.'
A School Visit That Left a Lasting Impression
Ian, who did not provide his surname, recalled a school trip to the Major Oak. 'At that time we were allowed to actually stand inside the tree and I recall being totally amazed by the fact (at least in my infant school mind) that I was looking at exactly the same shapes and curls and knots in the wood that Robin Hood saw when he was hiding from the Sheriff of Nottingham.' He expressed surprise at how sad he felt learning of the tree's death, calling it 'one of England’s greatest natural treasures.'
An International Symbol of Connection
Jens Binder, an associate professor at Nottingham Trent University and father of three, wrote that he and his family took friends from Spain, Germany, Portugal, Hong Kong, El Salvador, and India to the tree. 'Everyone could instantly feel the significance of this magnificent tree. To me, it has always been an instant connection with the past, down the centuries.' He noted that Sherwood Forest still houses other ancient oaks.
Calls for Greater Protection of Woodlands
Guy Birkin, chair of Annesley Archers club, said: 'Very sad to hear about the death of this iconic tree, so much a part of Nottinghamshire history and legend.' He emphasized that while the Major Oak was protected by its fame, many other ancient trees are not. 'With evidence that trees support adaptation to increasing temperatures, especially in urban areas, and that being in woodland promotes mental and physical wellbeing, we should take greater care of our arboricultural heritage for the sake of our own and future generations.'
Enduring Legacy
Pat Hutton from Stroud, Gloucestershire, wrote: 'I have loved this tree since I was a child. Visiting Granpop, who lived in Worksop, from our home in Cleethorpes, we would always find time to go to Sherwood Forest and visit the Major oak. My imagination in full flow, I could see Robin Hood and his merry men hiding there.' She concluded: 'Sadly, I haven’t seen it for many years, but it lived in my memory, and will live on there.'
