Downtown Dade City’s most iconic landmark – a sprawling oak that predates the United States – is set to receive a permanent tribute. The Heritage Oak, which stands beside the old Pasco County Courthouse and a World War II memorial, is estimated by a certified arborist to be about 250 years old.
Why the oak matters
For centuries the tree has watched Dade City grow from a frontier settlement into the vibrant community it is today. Its wide canopy and sturdy trunk have become part of the courthouse square’s character, offering shade and a sense of continuity for residents and visitors alike.
Julie Hale, civic co‑chair of the Dade City Garden Club, says the oak holds personal significance. Four members of her family are listed on the nearby war memorial, and she finds comfort in knowing they are remembered beneath the tree’s branches.
Community action saves the oak
Concern about the tree’s safety has lingered for years. Pasco County officials once feared the oak could topple onto the memorial and even floated a proposal to replace it with sabal palms. Advocates responded by hiring their own certified arborist, who conducted a thorough assessment and confirmed the tree is healthy.
Armed with that information, supporters rallied. Kevin Taggerty, founder of the Dade City Life Facebook page, reported that roughly 150 people from five counties gathered to show their backing. County commissioners listened, and the Heritage Oak was added to Dade City’s Historic Register, a designation that helps protect it from future removal threats.
Fundraising for a bronze plaque
With the historic designation secured, the Dade City Garden Club is now focused on education. The group aims to raise $2,000 to commission a bronze plaque that will tell the oak’s story and explain its significance to anyone strolling through downtown.
The plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of the tree’s deep roots in the community and provide a tangible link to the city’s past for future generations.
How you can help
Donations can be made directly through the Garden Club’s fundraising page. Every contribution brings the community closer to preserving this living piece of history.
By honoring the Heritage Oak, Dade City residents are not only protecting a natural treasure but also reinforcing the values of stewardship, family heritage, and faith in the enduring strength of their hometown.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
