Dear John,

Within the mystical, fog-shrouded forests of Monte Rio Redwoods is an ancient redwood, one that has lived for nearly 1,500 years.

This tree has a particularly gnarly past, having survived fires, multiple lightning strikes, and the ongoing effects of climate change. Every year of history it has borne witness to is etched on its trunk.

Photo credit: Justin Lewis, Coldwater Collective

When visiting the property, I realized a storied tree like this one deserves a name. Some giants serve as a living reminder of the resilience of nature during the tests of time, and that we are guests in their cathedral. Despite the adversity, this tree stays standing, stubborn and glorious, watching over Monte Rio.

I’m fascinated by this old giant. You simply can’t look away from it. We are an integral part of nature, and it is our duty to care for it. Allow its beauty and complexity to inspire creativity.

Name That Redwood

We’re curious, what would you name this old-growth redwood, and why? Maybe a name that’s uniquely Californian! Or perhaps a name that pays tribute to the land this tree stands on, which is the ancestral land of the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians and the Southern Pomo territory of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria.

I want to know: what would YOU name this ancient redwood?

No matter what you call this redwood, it is an important piece of our environment, and something that should be safeguarded and respected for generations to come. On that, I think we can all agree!

Sincerely,