Tree at Strickland House Falls Into Buford Highway

Judy Wilson, president of the Duluth Historical Society, reported that a large tree apparently struck by lightening fell on the grounds of the Historic Strickland House and blocked a lane of Buford Highway during a severe thunderstorm Wednesday (June 15) evening. 

Another tree fell onto the 100-year-old garage next to the house crushing the roof, Wilson said. Vintage farm implements stored in the open garage were spared. The house itself, which serves as the society’s museum, was not damaged in the storm, she said.

Sixteen-year-old Duluth High School student driver Ali Cole had to slam on the car brakes to avoid hitting the tree after it fell into her path, Wilson said. Ali, who was accompanied by her driving instructor Coach Stephen Fairchild, was able to come to a safe stop.

Judy and her husband Fred Wilson cleared the tree from the roadway with the help of passers-by.