07/21/2026
Behind the scenes at the future Charlotte Museum of Nature: our team is prepping a 178-ring American Sycamore cross-section for its big debut. Count the rings, do the math and this tree germinated in 1801 β Thomas Jefferson's first year as president!
This slice was cut in December 1980 from a sycamore at Parker's Mill on the Uwharrie River in Randolph County. From there, it was gifted to Discovery Place, where it once was displayed in the lobby of the former nature museum.
Its home will be on the museum's second floor, where it will continue to inspire generations of nature lovers, while a companion slice will greet visitors at our lobby concierge desk.
Piedmont history, hiding in plain sight. π³