Seven Oaks

This triangle takes its name from the seven majestic Northern Pin Oaks (Quercus ellipsoidalis) that it contains. Northern Pin Oaks grow to 70 feet, with diameters measuring as much as 2 1/2 feet. They have short trunks that develop many small branches and smooth, dark brown or gray bark. There are approximately 450 species of oak widely distributed throughout the northern hemisphere’s temperate zone. Oaks are both evergreen and deciduous.

Quercus can be subdivided into three groups: white oaks (Leucobalanus), red or black oaks (Erythrobalanus), and a third group called Cyclobalanus. In the first two groups, the scales of the acorn-bearing cup are arranged in a spiral pattern, while in the third group, the scales form concentric rings. White oaks have smooth leaves and drop sweet acorns that mature in one season. Red and black oaks, on the other hand, have bristly leaves and bitter, hairy acorns that do not mature until their second year. Male and female flowering occurs on the same tree with the female flower bearing the acorn.

Astoria Boulevard North, 24th Avenue, and 37th Street bound the site of Seven Oaks. The triangle was acquired in 1934 and constructed in conjunction with Grand Central Parkway in 1935; a New Deal project. The parkway’s construction began in July 1931, following a ceremony led by Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt and Parks Commissioner Robert Moses. The Grand Central Parkway extends from the Triborough Bridge to the Northern State Parkway, forming a contiguous link between the Bronx, Manhattan, and Long Island. Spanning 14.6 miles, the thoroughfare’s construction cost over $12 million when completed in 1936. Parks attained jurisdiction over the parkway on June 1, 1939. Today, the triangle contains benches, squirrel animal art, and a compass with astrological signs. The fence also displays leaf and acorn art for the tall trees of Seven Oaks.

Thursday, Dec 27, 2001