My Fire Service colleagues in Shropshire (England) wish to plant two memorial trees in honour of their counterparts lost on September 11th. They favour a handsome North American species offering good autumn colour.
Could someone advise me about the street trees characteristic of New York or perhaps that distinguish the character of Central Park? Is there any association/emblem connecting the NY Fire Department with any species of tree? Is there any other species of tree which would prove particularly appropriate for some other reason?
My colleagues would dearly love this tribute to be as relevant and meaningful as possible so your advice would be appreciated.

Reply to post by John Blessington, on November 07, 2001 at 11:56:43:

I think the best tree is one that is suted to the site and will last for generations. Some trees are naturaly short lived and others are that may have a long lifespan in their native setting will not thrive.

If one wants alegory then maybe burr oak (Quercus macrocarpa) strong of limb and resistant of fire adapted to weather storms.

I would recomed contacting a local arborist to look at the site and come up with a list of best suited plant types. This way you can be sure that when you are in your dotage you can take the greatgrand kids to see it and touch the trees say a prayer.