A nearly 300-year-old bur oak at Detroit’s Elmwood Cemetery is being mourned after a powerful storm caused serious damage to the historic tree.

The tree was one of 19 trees lost at the cemetery when a tornado went through Detroit’s east side last month.

Officials say strong winds caused widespread damage. The historic bur oak suffered a large, irreparable split at the base of its trunk.

The tree was believed to be about 280 years old, meaning it was already roughly a century old when Elmwood Cemetery was established.

The cemetery held a memorial service for the tree, led by death and grief doula Kristy Sue Bishop.

Bishop says that natural spaces can be very important for people going through sadness or grief.

“I know many people come here and carry heavy feelings, and I think the trees are just one of the natural things people turn to when they’re feeling overwhelmed, she says.

Detroiter Josh Bono says he was immediately drawn to the bur oak. “I was amazed to find out that it’s older than the cemetery itself. I felt really moved by an ancient presence…or as close to one as we can get out here.”

Elmwood is an 86-acre cemetery and arboretum. Officials say replacing lost trees and caring for damaged ones has become an increasing part of maintaining the grounds.

This story is a part of WDET’s ongoing series, the Detroit Tree Canopy Project.