What Is That Thing? The Historic Croton Yews

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — On a quiet hilltop in one of the Hudson Valley's most popular parks are four impressive and distinctive trees that stand out from the surrounding wilderness.

It turns out that Mother Nature isn't responsible for this unexpected example of biodiversity separated from the forest by a split rail fence — the real reason is, however, a matter of history.

In this case, the answer to the question, "What kind of fantastic trees have you got growing around here?" requires only a short walk to the top of the knoll.

A plaque at the base of the majestic stand of trees explains their nearly two-century-long history.

"Historic Croton Yews. These four ENGLISH YEWS (taxus baccata) were planted by Dr. Richard Underhill in the mid 1800s when he lived here with his family. Their mansion stood nearby overlooking the Hudson River. The yews were purchased for thirty-seven and 1/2 cents each from a nursery in Flushing, NY. They are now on the New York State Historic Tree Register."

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