Photo © Jim Via

history continued

A reporter from Rochester’s daily newspaper, Democrat and Chronicle, also made note of the trees that surrounded the Anthony house. He described the third floor work area as "two large and airy rooms that appear to be perched literally in the tree-tops—so close are the swaying branches which seem to nod approval and encouragement to the two busy workers seated before a large bow window." Notwithstanding the tree's strong and noteworthy presence, it was threatened with removal even while Miss Anthony lived there. When the city of Rochester announced plans to take it down to make way for new sidewalks, Miss Anthony took on the fight to save the tree.

Today, the Susan B. Anthony House is a National Historic Landmark open for public tours. Upon arrival, one is greeted by the noble Horse Chestnut Tree which stands 65 feet tall and measures 42 inches in diameter. This significant feature of the cultural landscape of the Susan B. Anthony House and its associated streetscape has graced and shaded the historic property since Miss Anthony and her sister, Mary, lived there. Today, over 100 years after Miss Anthony's death, the Horse Chestnut Tree continues to welcome visitors just as it did during Miss Anthony’s life and stands today as the only remaining living witness to the inspirational and precedent-setting work of Susan B. Anthony and her colleagues.