ANCIENT LAUREL

Kalmia Latifolia,(Mountain Laurel) indiginous to all of the original 13 colonies is one of our most beautiful native plants. And, in my opinion should be the national flower of the United States. This particular laurel resides in Northern Iredell County in an isolated place near an old wagon road along Liberty Branch. Before our ancestors renamed this place it was guarding the stream. Witnessing Native Americans, settlers,Union Calvary and modern machinery the stories it could tell. My pocket knife in the photo measures open from blade point to end of handle eight and one quarter inche's. The official measurements of the laurel have not been made as of yet but where my knife rests is four feet above the ground. I have taken friends to visit my ancient friend and hope to take a few more. Resting above a stream in a little shade is where after all where we all want to be.