3-000-239 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Removal of a large tree from Chiswick to the new gardens of the Horticultural Society at South Kensington, [London], 1860. 'The subject before us is a fine specimen of the deodar, 26ft. high and 18ft. through, which was removal from the society's gardens at Chiswick. Its weight, with the ball of earth attached, was not less than eight tons. The mode of operation is as follows: After the tree had been duly prepared, a strong platform of wooden planks was placed under the ball of earth containing the roots. The sides were also secured by means of planks and short boards to prevent the roots from being injured. The transplanting-machine was then placed over it, and by means of powerful screws and chains it was raised to the required heigh for removal, and was carried in a vertical position to its place of destination. The society intend to remove a considerable number of large trees in this way with a view of producing an immediate effect in the new gardens [at Kensington Gore]...Lady Holland has contributed several fine trees from the plantations of Holland House; and W. Gibbs, Esq., of Lyntesfield, has presented to the society many handsome red-twigged lime-trees from his estate at Bristol'. From "Illustrated London News", 1860.