Hi Jack,

No one knows exactly why the famous Clar Tree was spared. In the mid-1800s, it was one of hundreds of giant coast redwoods that lined this section of the Russian River across from Stumptown. As the century wore on, one after another of the tall trees in its riverbank grove came down.

Until the Clar Tree was the last ancient giant standing.

Over the ensuing decades, the town changed its name to Guerneville. New redwoods sprouted from the trunks and roots of the old trees, and many of those were cut down, too. But the Clar Tree survived untouched.

Clearly visible from across the river standing above the younger, healing redwood forest, the tree has become a symbol of perseverance. Its base bushy and unkempt, its top singed by lightning, the Clar Tree is a survivor, a symbol of strength and awe. It outlived the Roman Empire, and it will likely outlive all of us. And we’re here for it!

Now we’ve got a chance to protect it forever.

The Clar Tree is a living testament to the fact that the vast Russian River was once dominated by ancient redwoods that rivaled the giants of the North Coast.

May the Clar Tree inspire you to stand tall.

Thank you for your support!