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ARCHIVES Hurricane Lili Destroys Landmark and Legend Registered with the Live Oak Society in 1966 as # 204--"Living Christmas Tree" the live oak at the end of Main Street in Lake Arthur, Louisiana, was listed in Ripley's "Believe It or Not" as the largest living Christmas tree in the world in the 1930's. The tradition began in 1932 when volunteers, under the direction of John L. McCrary, decorated the tree with colored lights. That tradition continued until Hurricane Lili destroyed the ancient oak in October, 2002. Its branches were home to squirrels and birds and it welcomed all who sought its shade and comfort. Its beauty and presence in the town provided respite to those who needed it. Townspeople are conducting a fundraising campaign to remove the beloved oak and to purchase the largest live oak that can be planted on the site. Anyone wishing to contribute can send a donation to Mrs. Ann Fautt, Tree Account, c/o Lake Arthur City Hall, Lake Arthur, LA Hurricane Lili wounded, but could not kill, the stalwart "St. John Cathedral Oak" in Lafayette, Louisiana. Registered as # 65 with the Live Oak Society it presently served as Second Vice President. It has a girth of 26 feet 7 inches. The Bishop of Lafayette said that all efforts have been made to preserve the landmark oak.
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