The Very Oldest Pear Tree

This is the amazing true story of the first pear tree that was planted in America in 1630. It was tended by John Endicott, the Puritan governor who planted it on his farm. This tree, known as the Endicott pear, grew and produced bushels of fruit. The tree survived fire and continued to grow as the surrounding landscape changed. It was still producing fruit during the Revolutionary War and continued to thrive through the Industrial Revolution. It even inspired poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and the holiday of Arbor Day. It survived fierce storms and urbanization but nearly succumbed when vandals hacked away the limbs. Miraculously, the tree sprouted again and still stands after nearly 400 years!Why you need to add THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE to your book shelves:1. This is a story which is so fantastic that it almost doesn’t seem possible. Author Nancy I. Sanders conducted extensive research using original documents and interviews.2. The beautiful art has a vintage feel and with bright colors flowing across the pages. I especially like the way illustrator Yas Imamura depicted the different time periods through the clothing and architecture of each era.3. There are so many ways it can be used in the classroom. The history of the tree is a marvelous way to teach an overview of the growth of the U.S. from its Puritan times to today. In addition, science is woven into the text as the growth and regrowth of the tree is explained.4. THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is a story of hope and survival which now, more than ever, we all need.

I have always loved using non-fiction picture books in both classroom and homeschool settings to inspire my students and introduce them to new historical and/or scientific topics. I’ve discovered that even older students and adults can enjoy and benefit from the picture book format too, as it gives an easy, creative overview of a particular subject. THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE by Nancy I. Sanders is no exception, and I highly recommend this amazing book to both children and adults alike!I admit that I had never heard of the Endicott Pear Tree (that still stands in Danvers, near Salem Massachusetts) before reading this book. The tree, which was planted in the 1630s, has a long recorded history—which in itself is quite remarkable, and it has the honor of being the oldest pear tree in America. It has withstood fire, hurricanes, neglect, and vandalism and survived for over 350 years, and clones of the original tree now grow all over our country.After reading this book by Nancy Sanders and admiring the beautiful illustrations by Yas Imamura, I want to visit the original, historic Endicott Pear Tree and see it for myself. Like our great nation, the tree has withstood the test of time and many ups and downs--yet it still stands. I find the symbolism comforting.THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is an inspiring read about a lesser-known American landmark, but it deserves a spot on every history lover’s shelf!

Bill Endicott (spelling changed from Endecott in 1724)President, John Endecott Family AssociationAs an eleventh-generation descendant of the fellow who planted “The Very Oldest Pear Tree,” Massachusetts Governor John Endecott (1588-1665), I was very interested in the tale told by author Nancy Sanders. In fact, I even learned some new details from the story! It is a remarkable book on several levels.Nancy has described what happened in a charming way for the kid in all of us, and Yas Imamura has done a truly captivating job with the illustrations.The U.S. Department of Agriculture says this tree is the oldest living cultivated fruit tree in all of North America –– symbol of the endurance of old Puritan/ Yankee roots of the Republic! The tree stands today on the grounds of the Massachusetts General Hospital/North Shore Outpatient Center, in Danvers, Massachusetts, as yet another symbol of health and longevity to inspire their patients. It’s possible to buy clones of this special pear tree from two different organizations and plant them yourself –– and what other tree has a book about it? Thanks, Nancy and Yas!

This charming book takes children through American history from the pilgrims and the planting of a pear seedling in 1630 by Governor John Endicott of Massachusetts to the present. Called the Endicott Pear Tree, located in Danvers, MA, weathered storms, fire, modernization of a town, vandalism, and wars. It symbolizes American resiliency, hope, and patriotism. The book shares history from what happened as the tree grew and survived. A great story that shows the strength of trees and strength of our country. Children will be fascinated by the story and fear for the tree as each disaster seems like it will destroy the tree forever, They will rejoice as the tree survives. It's a page turned and that makes it a most unusual history book.

Nancy I. Sanders has done it again! She has such a gift—a beautiful way of bringing nonfiction stories to life. I didn’t know the story of the Endicott Pear tree before reading this book. Such an inspiring read! I can’t wait to share it with my grandkids.