I love this tree I had so much history. Is over a hundred fifty six years old and this is where slaves were told but they were free when the Emancipation Proclamation was read to them under this tree. Mary Peakes also taught free black and slaves to read and write under this tree. Just so much incredible history

A really neat sight located just feet from I-64. All these years passing right by, and I finally decided to stop this time. I would highly recommend for history and plant enthusiasts alike, but anyone can really enjoy this spot. There is a small car park where you can leave your vehicle, and walk around the fence to see the massive live oak up close. The photos really do not give a good sense of how large this tree is, so I would highly recommend seeing it in person. I’m very glad Hampton has done well to protect this national treasure. Cheers.

Its an interesting part of history plus an amazing tree.

Lovely spot to learn more history and see a beautiful tree. I wish there was more articles to read about the history

Historical. Well maintained. Beautiful to take pics

It was interesting to see and stand under such an important piece of American history. The tree is impressive on its own.

Just the history and nostalgia was something to behold

To see such a place of history for our people... This is where freedom began. Not just freedom from slavery, but FREEDOM to be EDUCATED!!!

A must see historical monument. Great atmosphere. My son enjoyed it as well

Its a pretty cool tree

Living history place is well conserved

This historic site is so beautiful. And, it has such meaning in this time!

I love the history of this place!

A hidden and not widely known gem. Viewing this oak is an easy ride from I-64. The large, majestic nature of the tree is obvious. The history that this tree was apart of is inspirational. Definitely worth a visit to Hampton University!

Had a flat and the HU cop said he couldnt help

Learn some history and visit this beautiful natural icon! Worth the trip!

Wow. Pictures dont do this iconic landmark justice. Please dont hesitate to visit it while youre at Hampton University.

Gorgeous historical landmark.

Very interesting. Alot of history.

Beautiful and inspirational local landmark

Visited Emancipation Oak and the Veterans Cemetery. All was maintained beautifully. Lots of students strolling around the Hampton University Campus, too bad they almost all seemed more content to look at their phone than where they were or where they were going... on two ocassions, I saw two students walk into each other because they were watching or typing on their phones...

The historical significance of this tree speaks volumes.

Beautiful and peaceful

Beautiful area, shade, awesome scenery

I brought two of my children to see the Emancipation Oak while on a trip to Hampton. They absolutely loved it. It was stunning. The size left us speechless. The story of the tree was a great teaching experience.

Wonderful park full of rich history

Good event space

Fascinating old tree with a unique place in our history.

A very underappreciated historical Hampton Roads gem. Quiet, stately, and significant. By itself or paired with Hampton Universitys Museum, worth exploring.

So much history.

Its a beautiful tree with history check it out

Good place for history lessons

I learned about the history of Empancipation Oak. The freed African Americans were taught to read under the tree.

Super awesome huge (fat) oak tree, base access required to get close to it. There is a chain link fence around it though.

Students passed on knowledgeable information

To know this tree stands for a cause

A wonderful historic place to visit ... learn about Mary Peake

Love American history. Never heard of the Emancipation Oak till I visited the area for work. Learned some amazing history here.

This is a small well kept park with plenty of parking. I was there playing pokemon go. There is a Pokemon Go gym there.

What a great place to visit on Hampton Universitys campus. Lots of history all around campus but this oak is where it all started definitely wanna check it out

A beautiful historic tree

This needs to be a highlight when visiting the Hampton Roads Area!!! So important to our history

Wow! Very very educational, this is also something to see, loved it.

Beautiful history

It is humbling to be in a realm of rich history and to realize that our ancestors dreamed of who we are today... in this place. Thank you Lord for this place of remembrance.

The first original Mercer of the thirteen colonies .

A great historical landmark during emancipation.

A must visit...Historical and Beautiful

Great place to take a walk!

The history of our culture is here for Virginians to enjoy and teach others. What a proud moment for me to come to the Emancipation Oak Tree. To know and understand that this was the beginning of literacy for African American which was illegal during that time is amazing, thank you.African American history is American history. Without it there is no American history.

This majestic piece of history is larger than life. It is truly a sight to behold.

It is an oak tree and a small story. It is an intersting stop on your way to Ft. Monroe. You can find out more about the tree online.

Played in the tree before i knew what it meant...now i understand what freedom means...

Great historic area, make sure to wake up to down town up the bridge

So much history around our area. I am proud to have the opportunity to visit this magnificent tree. The branches captivate the history of those who sat on her and around her. Thank you Hampton University for keeping this spectacular piece of history well maintained.

Beautiful place to stop and rest

It took us a while to find it, but it’s located right at the entrance of Hampton University.

Stunning. Majestic. And so much history...and the tree is still standing!

History of my people.

Amazing tree with great history

Hey I was just here

My kids go to school there and I love it. #CEODawud

Awesome Tree

My home by the sea

Nice historical place

Great history

Rich in History

So Cool.

Beautiful place

The story of a brave and resilient people is told here.

Truly an amazing story.

Didnt know it was here or the history. Awesome place to learn from.

Great history

Historical site. Easy to get to. The tree is beautiful.

Living History!

This is a Great Old Oak Tree. One can feel the history when standing beneath its sprawlinglimbs.

This is a beautiful and very spiritual historical landmark.

Beautiful

Pretty cool

Stunning!

VA hospital is okay. Parking is a pain unless you get there early.

Traffic and no parking

I love this place

It was so moving to bear witness to this tree, which bore witness to the end of legal slavery.

American history

This landmark is not only a very important part of our history during the civil war, this is one large impressive oak tree.

Awesome

A dream!

History...

Spiritual

Rich in history

Must see

In 1863 enslaved African Americans gathered at the roots of this tree to hear the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Beautiful.

This should be added to everyones bucket list.