In the aftermath of the devastating wildfire that ravaged Maui’s west coast, Timothy Griffith Jr. feared that the historic banyan tree in Lahaina had been destroyed. However, to his surprise, the 151-year-old tree still stood, though severely damaged. With careful pruning and nursing, Griffith and a team of arborists and volunteers have helped the tree grow anew, symbolizing hope and resilience for the community of Lahaina.
The banyan tree holds a significant place in the hearts of Maui residents, as it has been a witness to various life events such as weddings and funerals. The wildfire that swept through Lahaina, destroying historic landmarks and claiming lives, also threatened the tree. Residents came together to care for the tree, finding solace in the process of healing and restoration.
While the banyan tree has become a symbol of hope for Lahaina, its history is complex, as it was originally planted to honor the arrival of Protestants in the area. Despite this, indigenous Hawaiians have a more nuanced view of the tree. Realtives of Hawaiian residents have been in Lahaina since the 1800s and have their own treasured memories associated with the trees lost in the fire.
Griffith continues to care for the tree, monitoring its growth and planning for the future by taking cuttings from new growth. The community remains cautiously optimistic about the tree’s recovery and the possibility of replanting other lost trees. As Lahaina rebuilds and recovers from the fire, the banyan tree stands as a symbol of hope and resilience for the community and all of Maui.
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