Have you ever noticed a huge cottonwood tree that sticks out like a sore thumb just north of Maize on K-96 (mile marker 276)? I have noticed it for years and I have always wondered about it. I knew that it had to have some significance. The tree is over 100 years old and lots of locals refer to it as the "wishing tree," "lucky tree" and "honking tree." People make it a habit to honk for good luck as they pass the tree. Local sports teams have put ribbons with their school colors around the tree for good luck. I have seen many different school colors on it over the years. I also remember driving by the tree after 911 and someone had placed an American Flag on it. The tree was almost cut down in the 90's when the state was widening K-96. Luckily, enough people protested and the state had a change of plans.
This tree has seen so many vehicles driving to and from the state fair, breakdowns, accidents, rain, sleet, snow, wind and more. It isn't near as big as it was years ago, but it's still an incredible sight!
Here's more about the tree from the Wichita Eagle from a few years back.
There's also a fundraising page to help preserve the tree. Click here for more details.