Cork Oak Tree, 2003. Courtesy Norm Poitevin.

history continued

By the mid-1960s, the Staburcks’ house had become dilapidated and the property overgrown. The size of the property had also been reduced with continued development of 7th Avenue, what would become a busy thoroughfare. In 1970, what remained of the Starbucks’ house was demolished and the lot on which the Cork Oak stands was developed for use as a self-service gas station. The tree was scheduled to be felled as part of the development; however, in response to public outcry, the firm which was building the station altered their design and left the tree in place. During the controversy, Dr. William Nolan of Cabrillo College in Aptos, California, called the tree “the most magnificent specimen in Northern California,” adding “it is well known among tree lovers.”

Today, the Cork Oak and a Rose of Sharon bush are all that remain of Starbuck’s exotic plant collection. The Cork Oak now stands over 27 feet tall and has a girth of 13 feet and 5 inches. The large old tree is enjoyed by hundreds as they drive by on a daily basis and the community as a whole is very supportive of the Cork Oak’s preservation. When the felling was scheduled in 1970, “it was met with a chorus of vigorous protests by neighbors and conservationists.” Along with local residents, groups such as the Live Oak Neighbors and the Live Oak History Project continue to support the tree's survival in the hopes that it will be able to live out its normal life span of 300 to 400 years. In doing so, the community can continue to enjoy the wonderful old “sea captain’s cork oak” for generations to come.