Sue and I have lived in Cochrane for almost 20 years and one of our favourite activities is walking the Cochrane pathways. One of the most scenic routes is along Bighill Creek to the RancheHouse.
When we first saw the Grandfather Tree it took our breath away. The massive exposed roots clinging to the hillside and the magnificent trunk and branches reaching for the sky. Over the years we would take our kids, grandkids, family and friends to see Cochrane's best kept secret….the Grandfather Tree.
On January 16th a storm hit Cochrane and the gale force winds felled the tree. A week later I went for a walk to see my old friend. The area was surrounded by orange tape and a sign said “Do not enter”. In front of the fencing was a box and in the box was a journal. It said “Please leave your thoughts about the Grandfather Tree”. Here are some of the comments:
"We love you Grandfather Tree. We will always remember you. We have so many good memories with you. We’re sorry that the wind storm hit you. We hope you grow back. We will not give up hope. We hope your babies grow big and strong like you. We love you to the moon and back."
Mme. Julie and Mme Joty’s Classes at Glenbow School
"Farewell, old soldier! You have brought so much peace and joy to my family and friends. Four generations of my family loved cherished you, since the 1980’s."
Jennifer Isaas and Family
"We only arrived here on September 2024, but we had the pleasure of seeing you stand tall. We’ll miss you on our family walks."
Jac, Ash, Eddie and Rudy
"Oh Beautiful Tree: Thank you for your strength and beauty, knowledge and wisdom. You are loved. We will miss you as you were and cherished as you are. Love you Great Grandfather."
Fox and Vandersteen
Tall and Grand,
300 years you stand,
Your roots run deep,
Many children’s secrets you keep,
Grand memories of when you stood guard,
At least now, climbing you won’t be so hard.
Lucas, Nadia and Dwayne
By all accounts the Grandfather Tree started growing around 300 years ago so that would take us back to the early to mid-1700’s. So who was around at that time? Well, Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was a founding father of the United States, a scientist, inventor and diplomat. He carried out his kite-flying experiment and discovered that lighting is a powerful electric charge.
So hopefully, there will be a Great Grandfather Tree and over the next 300 years’ families, friends and visitors will be able to visit and enjoy its beauty.
© 2025 Martin Parnell
