This massive oak tree stands next to an abandoned farm lane in the Shenandoah Valley near Mount Meridan near Grottoes, VA.

According to local tradition General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson stopped each morning after breakfast at a nearby house to pray under this oak tree while his army was encamped
nearby in June of 1862.

Many in the Shenandoah Valley have heard of the white oak tree known as "Jackson's Prayer Tree" which still stands near Mount Meridan. It is estimated to be anywhere from 275 to 300 years old and is considered one of 36 most historic trees in the United States, according to the US Forestry Department.

On the weekend after the battle of Port Republic, troops under General "Stonewall" Jackson, a deeply religious man, were encamped nearby. His Sunday worship service was held under this tree on June 15, 1862.

Wood was collected recently during a trimming to promote health of the tree. Some of it has been set aside to make into ball point pens which are shown in the image above.

Pens from this tree are in production (June, 2007)
and are available from the

Society of Port Republic Preservationist, Inc.
PO Box 82
Port Republic, VA 24471
540-249-9226

These Pens are offered to the public for $25 each.

They may be pre-ordered by e-mail
solometojp@verizon.net

Or by calling: 1-540-249-3256

Port Republic Museum
Port Republic, VA