In my research of the American Chestnut tree, I learned that mature trees are more common up north, especially in areas where it was planted outside its normal range, i.e. Appalachia. So when a friend heard I was going to Michigan, she confirmed what I had learned, and proceeded to tell me that I should be able to find one.
During the trip, I would ride in the backseat and periodically stare out the window as the trees of Michigan passed by, watching for a tall American Chestnut.
Two days passed and as my family was heading farther north, I glanced out the window and declared, "Chestnut!" There was a low branch sticking out toward the road and from it drooped distinctive American Chestnut leaves. We decided to turn around and go back to it even though it looked to be short, but once we arrived, I looked up and saw the top of the tree about fifty feet up, complete with spikey green burs!
I pulled out my camera and took photos which are now finally added to this site for you to enjoy! Click here to see the newly updated American Chestnut page!