Regina's Ancient Sentinel Lives On: Sculptures Preserve the Legacy of the City's Oldest Tree

For two centuries, a magnificent cottonwood stood sentinel in Regina's Wascana Centre, silently witnessing the growth of a city around it. Predating Regina itself, this venerable giant was more than just a tree; it was a living monument, a stoic observer of history unfolding near the legislative building, its towering canopy a familiar and comforting presence.

Alas, time and nature eventually take their toll.

In 2023, after years of battling a debilitating fungus, the difficult decision was made to fell Regina’s oldest tree. Its removal wasn't merely the cutting down of wood; it was the poignant farewell to a cherished landmark, a piece of the city's natural heritage that had stood for generations. The loss resonated deeply within the community, marking the end of an era for a tree that had become an integral part of Regina’s landscape and collective memory.

Yet, the story of this majestic cottonwood doesn't end with its felling.

In a beautiful testament to its enduring spirit, Wascana Centre Authority, through the "Our Wascana" project, embarked on an initiative to transform the tree’s remnants into lasting works of art. This wasn't about simply discarding the wood; it was about giving new life and purpose to its very essence, allowing its legacy to continue inspiring future generations.

Local artists, volunteering their talent and passion, stepped forward to undertake this unique and heartfelt commission.

Over 700 to 1,000 pounds of salvaged wood from the colossal tree became their canvas. Among them, acclaimed sculptor Mike Bzdell, known for his intricate work, has been crafting a remarkable bench, envisioned to be both functional and deeply symbolic. This piece, along with others, is set to be installed inside the legislative building, offering a tangible connection to the tree’s original home and historical significance.

The vision extends further, with plans to place additional sculptures back into the landscape where the tree once stood, integrating its memory directly into the fabric of the park.

Imagine sitting on a bench carved from its very core, or encountering a sculpture that echoes its majestic form, forever intertwined with the natural beauty of Wascana Centre. These artistic interpretations will serve as powerful reminders of the cottonwood’s enduring presence, allowing visitors to connect with its rich history and the ecological narrative it represents.

This remarkable project isn't just about art; it's a profound act of remembrance and transformation.

It ensures that while the physical tree may be gone, its spirit, its story, and its connection to Regina will continue to flourish. Through the hands of talented artists, the oldest tree in Regina has been granted an artistic rebirth, a poignant and powerful legacy that will stand as a tribute to its quiet dignity and its invaluable contribution to the city's soul.