Fling’s Towing was recently contacted by West Caln Township & West Caln Township Parks & Recreation to assist in removing a massive 1700s era black oak tree that was blocking the road at Layton Park in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. The township’s largest loader couldn’t budge it, so we brought in our 50-ton wrecker to move this behemoth. We also utilized our 4WD telehandler and grapple to help move the debris and clear the roadway. This historic tree, one of the largest black oaks in the state, measured about 74 feet tall, with a trunk circumference of 16 feet and a canopy spread of 110 by 124 feet.

The black oak at Layton Park was not only a significant natural landmark but also a crucial part of local history. Recognized by the PA Champion Tree Program as the ninth-largest black oak in Pennsylvania and the third-largest in Chester County, it played an important role in preserving the surrounding land. Greg Layton’s family, who owned the land, worked with the Brandywine Conservancy to ensure its conservation. The tree was last measured in 2020. Today, Layton Park offers trails, pavilions, ballfields, and a playground, all thanks to the efforts centered around this historic tree. For more information about the PA Champion Tree Program, visit PA Big Trees.