Story Trees

Story Trees are Kerrville's heritage trees - not necessarily because they are prime specimens, but because they are best suited for telling a story that matters to us. These can be the stories of a building, a parcel, an idea, an event, a process - whatever.  In 100-150 words, the story is captured and documented on a permanent marker installed near the tree.

Locally fabricated using 3/8" steel and planted in concrete, the custom markers are designed to last.  Stories are printed either on a removable aluminum plate or directly on the steel, using a technique that allows for easy repair or replacement.

Decades ago, Susan Sander, founder of the Riverside Nature Center, drafted a map of native trees in downtown Kerrville.  The idea of a tree trail has been around for a while, and is ready to sprout.  

Have a publicly accessible tree in mind?  Document a draft of its story in 100-150 words and send it to us, along with a photo and location of the tree. Bonus points for a letter of permission from the landowner.  

The stories don't have to be literal. Poems, whimsical stories, or fictional prose all have a place in the collection.  

Resources are limited, and not all submissions will translate into a permanent marker.  Selected stories and photos may also be documented on the KUTS website.