A majestic tree stands on the grounds of North Shore United Methodist Church in Glencoe, Illinois, providing shade, shelter, and beauty for more than a century. This legacy oak is now honored as Glencoe’s Tree of the Year for 2026.
The annual tradition, led by the village’s Tree Commission, invites residents to nominate their favorite trees and share stories behind them. Glencoe, recognized as a “Tree City USA” by the National Arbor Day Foundation for over 40 years, makes earning the award prestigious. The honored tree has comforted visitors since the church’s sanctuary was established at 213 Hazel Avenue in 1914, yet it’s older than the church itself.
Ed Goodale, co-chair of North Shore United Methodist’s trustees committee, nominated the oak for this recognition. “We don’t know its exact planting date, but it’s likely over 140 years old,” stated Goodale. He fondly refers to the tree as the “longest-serving member of our church,” providing shade for outdoor summer services for over a decade.
Historical accounts from around 1910 show the foundation of the North Shore United Methodist Church in Glencoe. The legacy oak tree at the left of the image is receiving Glencoe’s 2026 Tree of the Year Award. Church records note a major limb broke during a 1990s windstorm, damaging a corner of the building, yet the tree remains resilient.
“Our urban forest is one of our great assets. We eagerly protect, cultivate, and celebrate it,” stated Phil Kiraly, Glencoe’s village manager. He emphasized that many residents deeply care for trees on public and private land, and the award highlights a truly unique tree each year.
The Tree Commission uses several criteria to choose the winning tree, such as age, health, species preference for native ones, canopy spread, and community ties. Members visit each nominated tree to gather extra information and history. Seven nominations were received this year, including a young apple tree from the Glencoe Historical Society and a bur oak with supportive cabling after damage. Ultimately, North Shore United Methodist’s oak triumphed.
Last year’s winner was a 225-year-old heritage bur oak on LaPier Street, maintained by the village’s forestry division. Measuring nearly 13 feet in circumference, its canopy stretches into the street, epitomizing Glencoe’s natural beauty.