Jessie Ball DuPont Park

Home of the Historic Treaty Oak

At the heart of this park stands the magnificent Treaty Oak, a Southern live oak that's been quietly witnessing Jacksonville's history for over 250 years. This natural giant is remarkable - its trunk spans about 25 feet across, and its sweeping branches extend so far they actually touch the ground in places.

You'll find a thoughtfully designed boardwalk beneath the Treaty Oak, making it accessible for everyone including wheelchair users. This path lets you get up close to appreciate the tree's remarkable size while keeping its delicate root system protected.

Rich Historical Background

Back in the early 1900s, you might have found yourself enjoying rides at Dixieland Park in this very spot. Fast forward to the 1930s, when conservation efforts for the Treaty Oak began taking shape, championed by the Garden Club, Mrs. Jessie DuPont, and a determined local reporter.

Interestingly, the name "Treaty Oak" comes from a creative bit of storytelling - a fictional tale about peace treaties being signed under its sprawling canopy by settlers and indigenous people.

Urban Oasis

Found in Jacksonville's downtown Southbank area, this modest green space offers a welcome breath of fresh air amid the concrete and glass of the city. While you might still catch the hum of nearby traffic, it somehow feels like a different world under the oak's expansive shade.

The park makes for a fantastic lunch spot or quiet reading nook, with several benches and grassy patches inviting you to sit and stay awhile. It offers a connection to nature right in the urban core.

Photography and Special Events

If you're into photography, the Treaty Oak offers something special. Its twisted bark patterns and enormous canopy create natural compositions that practically frame themselves. Countless photographers capture its unique character in different seasons and lighting.

The tree has also witnessed many beginnings, with couples frequently choosing its ancient branches as the backdrop for their wedding ceremonies - a living witness to new chapters of love stories.

Community Significance

Though it may not be the largest park around, this space plays an outsized role in Jacksonville's urban environment. It stands as a gentle reminder of why preserving natural landmarks matters.

You'll often find locals taking a quick midday break here, alongside curious visitors hoping to experience a piece of living Jacksonville history. Remember to show this natural monument the respect it deserves - no climbing on the tree or damaging its bark, please.

Visitor Information

You'll find portable restrooms available on site. Parking exists but can be a bit tricky to figure out if you're visiting for the first time.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friends along - the park is dog-friendly. Just keep them leashed and guide them away from the tree's roots and trunk to help preserve this incredible natural treasure for future generations to enjoy.