100th Anniversary of Ireland's 1916 Easter Rising Tree

Text of the Plaque

U.S. Capitol Grounds
Memorial Tree

Quercus petraea
(Irish Oak – Dair Éireannach)

Sponsored by the
1916 Easter Rising Centennial Caucus

To Honor the 100th Anniversary of
Ireland's 1916 Easter Rising

Planted on May 18, 2016

Tree Details

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) welcomed Ireland's Taioseach, Ireland's Ambassador to the United States and others to the U.S. Capitol Grounds for a tree dedication marking the 100th anniversary of Ireland's 1916 Easter Rising. This Irish Oak serves as a living memorial to the event.

A much-loved symbol of strength, the Irish Oak is known for its longevity – often living as long as 500 years. The AOC selected the Irish Oak because of its historical significance to the people of Ireland. One of the earliest forms of Irish law was created to protect the oak and five other 'chieftain trees.' It is also likely that ancient Irish religious sites were located next to oak groves.

Representative Mick Mulvaney (South Carolina) and Representative Brendan Boyle (Pennsylvania) sponsored the tree that was planted on Capitol Grounds across from the Rayburn House Office Building.