In an earlier post, we shared James Vukelich’s lessons from the Ojibwe people and their language on how to speak about trees, learning the Ojibwe word ‘Mitig.‘ He discussed how the word is an animate noun used in a context similar to referring to a relative. This grammatical pattern is central to the workings of the Anishaabemowin language and other cultures that respect and recognize the vital contributions of these trees to the environment and communities we live in.
For example, the tree, Mitig, is an animate noun like other living things, such as people, spirits, birds, and fish. An inanimate noun is like a tool, furniture, or clothing. And if you give this some thought, it represents a fundamental shift in how many people, cities, and governments speak about trees. They aren’t the same as replaceable inanimate objects or an “it.” They are living contributors to the communities where we live.
Inspired by this recognition, this post is a tribute to the known large Chinkapin (Chinquapin) Oaks in Michigan. For these are relatives of our special tree here in Sterling Heights, Michigan, some older relatives, some younger. They are all part of a larger Michigan family and historical tradition of recognizing big trees, much like we cherish ancestors, grandparents, and great-grandparents.
The Registry is a dynamic, living ancestry document—any references are snapshots in time as trees continue to grow, disappear, or shift in ranks with new certifications. The Michigan Botanical Society has maintained this registry since 1941 as the statewide representative of the nationwide effort to document the largest living trees of each species in the U.S.
So, let’s get to know some of the relatives of the Sterling Heights Chinkapin Oak #2612, the official registry number of the tree on North Van Dyke Avenue. While both spellings of the common name are used in various references, Chinkapin or Chinquapin, this will use them as they are spelled in the registry for simplicity. The scientific name remains the same – Quercus meuhlenbergii (mew-len-ber-gee).
Chinkapin Oak 1557
The current state champion at the top of the MBS registry, added in 2016, is in Wurster Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The City of Ann Arbor recognizes its champion trees by maintaining a Champion Trees webpage (archive) with annual benefits calculations such as stormwater intercepted and CO2 sequestered. The Chinkapin Oak is listed as their Champion Tree #15, where measurements on the webpage indicate the tree has grown a bit since it was first added in 2016 to the MBS registry. The City of Ann Arbor shows measurements (unknown date) of a circumference of 216 inches (18 ft) or DBH 68.75 in.
Even before it hit the MBS registry, it was a notable tree in Ann Arbor with this 1997 press article: Giants among Us
Chinkapin Oak 2037
This oak likes its privacy! Also on the Registry since 2016, this Chinkapin is located in Southwest Michigan, near the Barry State Game Area in Allegan County. It is in an area with a beautiful, thick canopy and currently holds the #2 spot in the state.
Chinkapin Oak 2229
Located off the Penrod Drain in a heavy agricultural area of south-central Michigan near Adrian in Lenawee County, this oak was listed as having declining health in 2020. The latest satellite imagery makes it difficult to know whether the oak is OK or not. It seems like a wellness check is in order.
As of this posting, there are currently only 11 Chinkapin Oaks in a total of 635 trees on the MBS Register, with one of the top three perhaps in questionable health if it is still standing. Every one of them has earned a recognized place as part of the natural ancestral history of Michigan. In a follow-up post, we will visit the other relatives of the Sterling Heights Chinkapin mitig who (sic) inspired this website. Subscribe below if you would like to be notified by email.
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