A historic oak tree, which was a landmark on the grounds of a 16th century manor in Breton, has collapsed due to a storm. The tree, located in the Pen-ar-Voas estate, Lopérec, in the midst of the Armorique Regional Natural Park (PNRA), was more than 400 years old. It fell under the force of storm Ciaran which brought gusts of over 210 km/h to the region last November.
The tree, standing at a height of around 22 m and with a circumference of nearly 4 m, fell in the early hours of November 2, 2023. Aude Sengélé, current owner of the manor and its grounds, recalls the shock of the event. She notes the tree’s historical significance, being planted during the construction of the estate, and witnessing key historical events like the French Revolution.
Aude, a history enthusiast, decided to preserve the tree’s stump in honor of its historical significance. The tree was located near a water source, a vital part of the land, and its loss was deeply felt by Aude and her family.
In an effort to give the tree a second life, Aude contacted carpentry and sawmills in Brittany. A phone call from François Breton, a well-known stonemason in the country of Abers, and his son Yazdan, provided the perfect solution. They offered to use the tree as lumber for framing and carpentry in their own 15th century manor.
Their manor, Coat Kenan, is built on the ruins of a 13th century fortified house, which in turn was built on a 10th century feudal mound. The place is recognized for its heritage value and can be visited during certain times of the year. The news of their plan to use the tree brought relief to Aude and her husband, as they saw the tree’s legacy continue in another historical setting.
