It contained 250 years of memories. It was the center of neighborhood block parties and was looked at by neighbors everywhere as a symbol of life and prosperity in the neighborhood. But, just as all good things come to an end, the years of withstanding weather finally took its toll. On Thursday, March 22 the “Moses Tree,” an icon of the Summit Avenue neighborhood in Lakewood was removed due to it becoming a safety hazard.

“It’s just part of us,” Connie Bogart told Fox News. “It’s like losing an icon.”

The tree was named after the founder of the city, Moses Cleveland. It is one of over 200 trees in the area to possess that name. Though these trees were named at the 150th anniversary of Cleveland in 1946, they have been alive since 1796– long before Cleveland’s arrival.   

Now, neighbors and residents of the neighborhood’s present and past gathered to watch the tree be removed with tear-filled eyes.

“I pray to the tree everyday,” Olga Wolters told Fox News. “Now, I won’t have a tree to pray to.”

Though the tree has died, it’s memory is still alive. A cross section of Moses’ trunk will be taken to study more about its history. The city has also determined that its branches will be saved for artistic purposes that have not yet been revealed.  In addition, arborist John Palmer has taken clippings from the tree to graft them with other roots and grow similar trees.

“Obviously, this white oak did well for 250 years,” said Chris Perry, Lakewood City Arborist. “Hopefully, the spot brings good luck.”