The Brooks elm, West Medford before 1890

Here is a photograph of The Brooks Elm in West Medford. Dominating the scene is the elm itself, an ancient tree with a grand canopy that represents not just nature, but enduring life and shelter. Elms, like the mythological Tree of Life, have long been symbols of connection to the earth and the heavens. We can find its echo in ancient tree worship and the sacred groves of classical antiquity. This motif reappears in countless forms, from the Yggdrasil in Norse mythology to the Bodhi tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. The photograph captures a moment of tranquility, yet the tree silently speaks of centuries, a collective memory rooted in our shared past, connecting us to our ancestors, and engaging our deepest emotions. Even in our modern world, this image resonates with the timeless human need for connection, stability, and the enduring power of nature.