
08/22/2025
Kane resident throws down the gauntlet: Who has the largest tree?
Kane, PA – Ken Stroup of Lindholm Road is challenging all of Kane and beyond to a friendly competition with a simple, yet monumental question: Who has the largest tree on their property?
It all started with a pine tree on Stroup's property, a silent sentinel that has stood tall for as long as he's lived there – a little over 40 years. Curiosity got the best of him, and with a tape measure in hand, he found its circumference to be 108.5 inches at chest height. Now, he's urging others to go out and measure their own trees.
"It doesn't matter what kind of tree it is," Stroup says. "If it's alive, standing, and well, measure it at chest height. If you think you've got one bigger than mine, I challenge you to prove it."
This isn't your typical competition with a fancy prize. The real reward is the bragging rights that come with having the biggest tree in the area. Stroup is asking anyone who finds a larger tree to have it officially measured, take a photo with it, and provide a little background on the tree.
Think you have a champion on your land? To get your official photo and story into the running, simply call the Kane Republican office at 814-837-6000. You can request a reporter to either be present for a photo op with you and your magnificent tree or instructed on how to send in your photos and details.
So, grab a tape measure and head out to your yard. You might just be the one to knock Ken Stroup and his pine off their leafy pedestal!
Photos by Theresa Auriemmo