A short stretch of Long Lots Road always makes me smile.
On the south side — just past the hill behind Bertucci’s — sit a half dozen handsome homes. Built in the 1920s, they’ve aged well. They look lived-in, and well-loved.
I admire the trees on each property too.
I better look closely at #28 Long Lots. It may not be there much longer.
The property was sold on September 17. A demolition permit for the 2-story colonial is already in the works.
If it’s like most teardowns, the yard will also be leveled. Gone will be an enormous, 100-year-old white oak/sycamore, arcing over Long Lots Road. It’s one of the most famous, and beloved, trees in town.
The handsome tree at 28 Long Lots Road.
Emails are circulating, urging tree lovers to contact the selectmen and Public Works director Steve Edwards to “make sure the town stays ‘green.'”
I know there are Westporters who are happy to see trees go. During the past few storms, falling trees have closed Long Lots Road with regularity.
But this one seems worth maintaining (and, for sure, trimming). It’s so striking. And with Long Lots a major thoroughfare, it’s got so many admirers.
There’s no question: If this tree falls, everyone will hear it.