Quote:
Originally Posted by Shayne Parkinson
Is it timber? Britannia, ruler of the waves and all that.
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In the early 1700's the White Pine tree covered most of what is now north-eastern United States. Today there is less than 1% remaining. Both Vermont and Maine have the White Pine as the center point on their state flags, as the majority of the Crown's holding were there. Today there are just seven of these majestic trees remaining in Vermont. They are in the middle of private property, and trespassing is absolutely forbidden. I was fortunate to be in a Natural Science class given permission to visit. They are amazing. Over 400 years old, more than 200 feet tall....
Standing absolutely straight, virgin White Pine, 200-300 years old was the perfect tree to be used as masts for Britain's tall ships, and any tree with a diameter of over 12" at breast height was considered to be Crown property. If your land had any of these trees, you had to pay a hefty tax to cut them down to clear the land for farming. If you cut them without paying, your lands would be seized and you AND your family would be imprisoned! THAT was the Pine Tree Tax, and it was a major factor in our entering into a war of independence.
ShaYne, well done! You are the new quizzmaster!
Stitchawl