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Submitted Photo
A historical marker to highlight the significance of a famous Hanover elm tree was destroyed in a recent motor vehicle accident.
HANOVER — Ninety years ago, Hanover’s giant elm tree fell after standing tall for 400 years. Recently, a marker that stood in its place suffered a similar fate due to an automobile accident in the Town of Hanover.
On the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 20, a two-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Route 39 and Hanover Street. According to initial reports, one vehicle ran a stop sign and struck another vehicle, which sent the vehicle that was struck into the historical marker.
The accident knocked the marker down and into a tree, damaging it beyond repair. The Town of Hanover is awaiting a police report for more details surrounding the incident.
The famous Hanover elm tree was once the largest tree east of the Rocky Mountains. It won two contests for its size, which was 35 feet around its base. Seneca artist Sanford Plummer made the tree a subject with 33 historic paintings. A piece of the historic tree is preserved in the Hanover Town Hall in a display case.
Vince Martonis, Town of Hanover Historian, has been tasked with handling replacement of the historical marker, which is owned by the Town of Hanover. A quote has been received, and the cost is expected to be covered by insurance reimbursement.
