Riddell: An old red oak gauged our progress

We know that outdoor activity provides a respite from the trials of modern society. But sometimes it can do far more, as I found out on a recent bicycle ride.

The Stringer’s Ridge/Moccasin Bend loop is a measured hill climb with minimum traffic followed by a benign, flat road that allows cyclists of all abilities to train on whatever aspect of cycling they choose.

For nontrainers, the loop offers spectacular views of the south shore of the river and city landmarks. On this particular day, following a spirited and winded climb, I thoroughly enjoyed the thrill of the steep descent and made my customary right turn at the bottom of the hill. But then I witnessed a sight that forced me to alter my route.

There on a flatbed truck were cross sections of the largest tree trunk I have ever seen.

I asked the young logger loading the truck just how old the tree was, its type and why it had to be taken down.

It was a diseased red oak, and it was 141 years old.

After staring in amazement for a number of minutes, I continued my ride, but I couldn’t quit thinking about all that had transpired during the time this tree was alive.

Of course, there was the invention of the automobile, the airplane, computers, space travel, but I was even more curious to learn what took place during the year of its birth — 1868.

In July of that year, the U.S. Congress passed the 14th Amendment, making blacks American citizens. And 141 years later in 2009 — the year this tree met its demise — U.S. citizens inaugurated their first African-American president. This tree, as it turned out, was a mammoth yardstick by which America’s promise of opportunity was measured.

To truly appreciate the great benefits that we enjoy in these United States, it helps for us, on occasion, to put historical events, both great and small, into perspective.

There are people still living who knew their grandparents in their youth and enjoy their great-grandchildren today. They have touched both ends of the red oak yardstick.

There’s something to be said about old trees and old people and the profound and positive effect they can have on us.