Maggie's Farm

And it's the Connecticut State Tree, no less. And you who first taught me that? Chief Harold Tantaquidgeon, the afternoon my Cub Scout pack visited his Mohegan museum, oh, back in the early 1960s. There was a yard out back with a "long house" and other outdoor exhibits, including a young sapling with a tag on it "White Oak". I knew at the time of "oak" trees (we had one in our own front yard) but I was trying to imagine what a "white" oak might look like when it grew up. The Chief came over as my 8- or 9-year old mind was contemplating this and said, "Do you know what is special about the White Oak?" Then, after a pause, "This is the 'state tree' of Connecticut."

You've heard of "unsung heros"? Well, this is my "song" to the memory of Chief Harold Tantaquidgeon. Many in this part of Connecticut who were youngsters in my day -- before casinos and such -- carry a similar song for this kindly gentleman in their memories.

See? Actually, not so shabby a pic after all.

Thanks.