Cutting edge

 Historic tree preserved as city sculpture

    The towering Augustine Ascending Elm tree that graced the Northville city green for generations has been resurrected as a city monument after falling victim to Dutch Elm Disease.

    The historic 110-foot tree which had to be removed in the summer of 2023 after being killed by the disease was long considered a landmark and symbol in the community and several nonprofit civic group members were determined to somehow preserve it. Their success will be officially recognized this Saturday when officials, including Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull, are on hand to dedicate a carving by chainsaw artist Tom Fink in the preserved trunk of the tree. The wooden tree trunk was moved to the grounds of the Northville Public Library, near city hall, where Fink has been carving the high school mascot from the remaining wood of the trunk.
    The artwork, officials said, pays tribute to the history of Northville.
    “We are so pleased to turn the sadness at the loss of the wonderful old elm tree into a monument celebrating Northville’s trees, history and community spirit. With this magnificent tree sculpture we are reminded of how lucky we are, whether a resident or visitor, to have lovely tree-lined Northville,” said Northville Tree Champions President Jim Porterfield.
    Northville resident Stacy Pearson, of “Stacy Kathryn Art”, created the initial concept design and renderings of the mustang. The mustang is carved from the top of the trunk and below, spiraling around the trunk of the tree, is an artistic relief of images depicting contributions to the Northville community and a number of thriving industries. The carvings were created by Fink who is a retired automotive designer who now operates “Cut n Carve.”

    “It’s been a pleasure working with everyone involved with this incredible project. I carved a number of large trees but this has been one of my biggest challenges,” Fink said. “I’ve also really enjoyed the interaction and compliments of so many people I’ve met in the process.”
    Officials said the carving could not have been completed without the support of the Northville Community Support Fund. More about the nonprofit organizations involved in the project is available online at: Northville Tree Champions, Northville District Library, Northville Historical Society, Northville Art House, and Northville Garden Club.
    The official dedication is set for 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct 21 in the city green space behind the Northville District Library at the corner of Wing and Cady streets.