Frank the Liberty Tree stood watch over Northeast Kansas City for nearly 250 years.

He was a Bur Oak, estimated to have started growing in the late 1700s—older than the United States itself. In 1976, during America’s Bicentennial, Frank was recognized as a Liberty Tree by the Missouri Department of Conservation, symbolizing endurance, local history, and community pride. He was nominated by former property owner Frank McLaughlin, whom the tree was named after.

For generations, Frank was more than a tree—he was a landmark. Neighbors have shared stories of swinging from his branches, gathering buckets of acorns, and spending quiet moments beneath him with loved ones who are no longer here.

Why We Need Help

In late 2025, the current property owners began seeking guidance on how to properly care for Frank as new stewards of this historic tree. After multiple professional evaluations, it was confirmed that Frank had advanced fungal disease affecting the root system, along with internal structural concerns that made the tree increasingly unsafe.

While Frank’s canopy still appeared strong, deterioration below ground and within the tree created safety risks for nearby homes, pedestrians, and power infrastructure. This was not a decision made lightly.

Frank’s removal was a decision rooted in responsibility—not neglect.

Frank Fell on January 16, 2026

On January 16, 2026 at 5:38 PM, Frank fell as the final phase of his removal process was completed. The work was carried out with professionalism and care by Alpha & Omega Complete Tree Care, with a team of six people who treated the job with the respect a historic tree deserves.

Where Donations Go

Frank’s removal and cleanup costs are the responsibility of the property owners.

Donations will help cover:

Local partners are working to evaluate Frank’s wood to determine what can be preserved. The condition of the wood cannot be fully known until drying and processing are complete, and that process may take 6–8 months.

If viable, small memorial items may be created later to honor Frank’s legacy and allow the community to keep a meaningful piece of this story. If you are interested in receiving wood or a momento, please sign up here.

Thank You

This has never been about spectacle. It has been about stewardship, history, and community.

Frank stood for 250 years without asking to be remembered.

Kansas City chose to remember him anyway.

Thank you for supporting the property owners and helping ensure Frank’s legacy is honored with care.

With gratitude,

Crystal Beasley

Community Organizer & Story Steward for Frank the Liberty Tree