Woodlore, Cultural and Historical Uses of Trees

Every tree has a story. Join expert tree educator, Levi O’Brien for a captivating exploration of the ways trees have shaped human culture, technology, folklore, and history. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Cuba Center’s natural landscapes, discuss and observe how the physical and aesthetic characteristics of each tree, its wood, and other component parts, have led to its place in each culture that has encountered it. Discover why locust and pine win naval battles, how Judas turned the flowers red, and how roller skating changed the industrial textile industry. A captivating look at the intersection of nature, history, and our native canopy. Part natural history, part storytelling, and part cultural exploration, this program offers a fresh perspective on the trees that surround us every day. Be prepared for a lengthy hike through hilly (sometimes steep) and uneven terrain. Please dress for the weather. This session includes access to the gardens for the day. Canopy and Culture, A Dual Learning Experience Discover trees through a two-day, distinct but complementary perspectives in this special partnership between Mt. Cuba Center, Longwood Gardens, and Levi O’Brien. At Mt. Cuba Center, enter a naturalist setting and explore the rich folklore and cultural significance of trees through stories. Then, the following day at Longwood Gardens, sharpen your observational skills and learn the art and science of tree identification in one of the region’s most diverse living collections. Together, these programs offer a deeper understanding of trees; not only how to recognize them in the landscape, but also how to appreciate the roles they have played and will continue to play in shaping our world. Register for either session individually or enjoy a special discount when enrolling in both. This program takes place in-person at Mt. Cuba Center Saturday, September 12, 2026. 🥬 New class About the Instructor: Levi O’Brien is a garden and arborist consultant, an expert on all things tree and wood related, and above all, an educator. He is a faculty instructor at the New York Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, a Graduate student, studying Forest Pathology, at SUNY ESF, and a green-woodworker. He spends most of his time avidly pursuing knowledge about horticulture, ecology, arboriculture, and wood history, structure, and use, in order to make it available to the public. REGISTER NOW: General Public Individual+ & Dual+ Members Supporter, Advocate & Conservator Members