Teaneck Library and the town's historic red oak tree

By Michael McCue, Library Director

December 1, 2015

The Teaneck Public Library is pleased to announce the installation of a slab of the historic red oak tree that graced the corner of Cedar Lane and Palisade Avenue for some 250 years.  The section of the tree now sits on the main floor of the library courtyard on a stand constructed by Anthony Santella, with an explanatory Plexiglas sign designed and fabricated by Majestic Signs of Teaneck.

The magnificent tree succumbed to disease and was cut down in June 2013 after efforts to preserve it by the Puffin Foundation. The tree stood on a lot that also housed a historic home that dated back to colonial times as well. It was owned by Julius P. Richter from 1921 until at least the 1960s.

The piece of the tree joins a portrait of the first township clerk, the 1976 bicentennial observance committee sign, the WPA murals in the reference room, a portrait of William Walter Phelps, a bust of Edith Van Buren and other artifacts that make the library a little Smithsonian.   All are on public display.

For more information, contact Michael McCue at [email protected] or  201-837-4171.