Film Preserving Memory Of Basking Ridge's Ancient Oak Completed

BASKIN RIDGE, NJ — A documentary about Basking Ridge's historic great oak tree has been completed by township local and screenwriter Michael Reynolds.

"I could not let a unique example of nature’s beauty pass away without creating a document for future reference, for future generations to share. It would be similar to allowing a beloved elderly relative pass away without a funeral or a memorial," Reynolds said.

The feature-length documentary about the 600-year-old oak tree, called "Under the Great Oak" is now being submitted to film festivals that have a history of connecting documentaries with distributors.

The tree was possibly the oldest white oak tree in the country and was taken down on April 24 after it died over the summer in 2016 despite efforts of the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church to preserve it.

• See Related: Tears Flow As 600-Year-Old NJ Tree Is Being Cut Down
• See Related: Basking Ridge's 600 Year Old Ancient Tree Has Died

Reynolds lives 500 yards away from the tree and could see it from his window. A bit of an environmentalist and a member of the Somerset Hills Historical Society, Reynolds wanted to create something to memorialize the great white oak.

Reynolds began filming in January and interviewed 24 people including artists, songwriters, and sculpturists who created pieces to celebrate the tree. He also spoke with historians, municipal figures and residents.

He even captured the moment when the son of the tree was transplanted from Cranford to Basking Ridge to replace it.

• See Related: 'Son' Of 600-Year-Old New Jersey Tree Planted In Basking Ridge

To learn more about the movie visit www.GreatOakMovie.com or facebook.com/underthegreatoak.

(Image via Jason Hutchings)

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