The Oldest Tree in Coventry

I was once told that the oldest tree in Coventry was the one that forms the central support in the Golden Cross. It had allegedly been cut to shape while the tree was still growing - although I would take that with a very large pinch of salt

OL I would too. The city annals tell us the first stone laid was by Cuthbert Jones, Mayor 1541-2. The bells did ring, the music played While people sweetly sing To see the first stone so well laid Great riches soon to bring. Which shall be had and made of hard stone, in the year of our Lord God 1542, and finished before the feast of John the Baptist, 1543. And further that Thomas Philips and John Pettit covenant and grant to find all lead and iron belonging to the same cross, and all stone, lime and sand, at their cost and charges, prepare, make or find a house for masons to work in during the time of making the cross. It is thought that Thomas Philips was the freemason and contractor and builder, Pettit quarry owner, but no real evidence. The stone came from Attleborough but was a bad selection.

I think this is the one Garlands was referring to at the start of this thread -

Our four legged companions might be the best authority regards oldest trees in Coventry.