Cecile's sister Sherry took us to see the ancient Live Oak located on John's Island, a short drive from downtown Charleston, SC., is like stepping into a living piece of history. This Southern live oak, estimated to be around 400-500 years old, stretches its massive limbs in every direction, creating a canopy that spans over 17,000 square feet, presenting an aura like an angel. Its gnarled branches twist and turn, some even dipping down to touch the ground before curving back skyward, giving the tree an almost otherworldly, sculptural presence.
Standing beneath the Angel Oak, I felt enveloped by the dappled light filtering through its dense, evergreen leaves. The sheer size of the tree is 65 feet tall with a trunk circumference of 28 feet is awe-inspiring, but it's the quiet, almost reverent atmosphere that really leaves an impression. The moss-draped branches and the surrounding serene woodland make it feel like a sacred space, rich with stories from centuries past.
The experience was humbling, feeling both the weight of time and the enduring strength of nature. Whether you are there for a quiet moment of reflection, to snap some photos, or to simply marvel at its grandeur, the Angel Oak offers a powerful connection to the natural and historical heart of the Lowcountry (Coastal Carolina's).
