Rewards Offered In Hamden’s ‘Door Tree’ Vandalism Case

HAMDEN, CT — The Regional Water Authority announced Friday that it will offer a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible for destroying the historic “Door Tree” in Hamden. This reward is in addition to a private reward offered for information, bringing the total to $2,000.

The Hamden Historical Society announced Thursday that the town’s iconic landmark “Door Tree” was cut down. Officials aren’t exactly sure when the vandalism occurred.

The tree gained its name due to a thick branch that extended from the trunk and arched downward, connecting with the ground and forming a doorway-like shape. The tree has been photographed as far back as 1898 and is believed to have been alive for approximately 30 years before that photo was taken.

The tree was featured on the TV show, Ripley’s ‘Believe it or Not,” and in Rachel Hartley’s book, The History of Hamden Connecticut – 1776-1936. The Door Tree was a White Oak and was in exceptionally good health for a tree of its age. It would likely have lived for many more years were it not the target of vandalism, officials said.

See also: Iconic Hamden Landmark Destroyed By Vandals: Officials

“The RWA’s Police Department and environmental management team are currently investigating the tree and seeking to determine what occurred and who may have been responsible,” the RWA said in a news release.

The RWA is asking that anyone aware of vandalism on their property to contact them at 203-562-4020. In addition to the reward announced by the RWA, a private reward of $1,000 has been offered through the Hamden Historical Society.

Contributed photos