In 1687, Sir Isaac Newton formulated some of the most fundamental laws of nature through the observation of an apple falling from the tree outside of his family estate. For centuries, scientists and historians have sought to discover the location of this apple tree in order to better understand the circumstances in which one of the most influential scientific theories of all time was born. Although the exact location of Newton’s apple tree is contested, many researchers point to a single, venerable apple tree in the garden of Trinity College in Cambridge, where Newton had his quarters.
The tree in question is a “Flower of Kent”, which was the standard variety when Newton lived in Cambridge. It is said that he generally liked this species because they bred strongly and were not prone to disease. Furthermore, it is thought that he first observed the apple falling from the tree situated outside his dwelling, prompting him to meditate on the effects of gravity.
It is often said that the apple tree in the Trinity College gardens is over 400 years old, as it was already old when Newton lived in Cambridge. This aligns with the local records from the time, in which it is mentioned that the tree was present at Trinity when it was founded in 1546. Since then, the tree has been cut down multiple times and re-planted during its long lifespan, having even been moved to a different location at one point.
Sir Isaac Newton was a very intelligent man and an eminent scientist who was so inspired by the falling apple that he was able to come up with theories which revolutionized the way people think about science and the world in general. His “principia” became a cornerstone of modern physics and mathematics. Many speculate that the apple tree served as a symbol of the great theories that Newton was able to work out from its example.
In 1820, the tree was finally recognized as a part of the University’s celebration of Newton’s work and is still being cared for. It is kept in a special location with a metal fence around it. Different varieties of apples have been grown from the original tree ever since and the tradition is still upheld today, with the apple tree being cherished by the University.
Identifying the Tree
Over the years, there have been attempts to scientifically identify Newton’s apple tree using herbariums, genetic tests and other methods. Unfortunately, none of these efforts turned up conclusive evidence that the fabled tree in the Trinity College garden is indeed Newton’s. Historical records point to a different species of apple tree, and some historians believe it is impossible to determine exactly which tree was the original.
Nevertheless, the persuasive argument that the tree in the Trinity College garden is Newton’s apple tree is hard to ignore. The age of the tree lines up with history, the species is the same, and it is kept in a special place with a metal fence. These arguments suggest that the apple tree in the Trinity College gardens may well be the same one that Newton observed some 333 years ago.
Cultural Impact
From posters to statues, from textbooks to art – the image of Newton’s apple tree has been ingrained in popular culture for centuries. Late Swiss Psychologist Carl Jung even named the cultural resurgence of scientific principles that occurred during Newton’s era as ‘the apple-fall syndrome’, after the famous apple story. Anything related to the tree has become a symbolic reminder of Newton’s genius, and the tree’s story has impacted and been commemorated in many different cultures.
Given all of the attention, speculation and scientific interest the tree has aroused over the years, it should come as no surprise that, despite all of the controversy, the apple tree in the Trinity College gardens continues to be the most widely accepted and accepted site as the location of Newton’s famed apple tree.
Further Historical Research
In recent years, researchers have even suggested that the apple tree on the grounds of Woolsthorpe Manor, Newton’s family estate, could also be the tree he observed. Records from the time suggest this could be the case, and further evidence may yet be uncovered to support this claim. Moreover, Woolsthorpe Manor has become a site of pilgrimage among historical and scientific communities who seek to understand Newton’s story better.
Given the amount of scientific and popular speculation surrounding the mysterious apple tree, and the different theories that have been proposed in an attempt to identify it, it is clear that Newton’s apple tree remains an icon of science and an enduring source of mystery and fascination.
Taxonomy and Species
The story of the apple tree, as well as its subsequent recognition, also raises interesting questions about its taxonomy (the scientific classification of living organisms) and its species of origin. Although this particular variety is called the “Flower of Kent”, its taxonomic name would be “Malus domestica”, and further studies suggest that it is a hybrid of two different species, which may have made the tree more resilient.
The authenticity of Newton’s apple tree and its original species may still remain a mystery, but its enduring power and influence are undeniable. From its humble origins in Newton’s Garden, the apple tree continues to inspire and influence generations of students, as well as scientists from all over the world.
Fruit Production
Although it has been kept alive for centuries and re-planted multiple times, the original apple tree has actually never borne any fruit. Nevertheless, numerous fruit varieties have been grown from the saplings of the original tree, and they are in use today. Some of the most popular varieties of apples grown from the original sapling include the famous ‘Wicken’ and ‘Featon Fantasia’, both of which are known for their unique taste and texture.
In fact, the original apple tree may have provided the foundational knowledge for the development of many of the old local varieties of apples still grown in England today. To this day, farmers and gardeners around the world take inspiration from Newton’s apple tree by growing these apple varieties to reap their benefits.
Preservation and Recognition
From its humble beginnings as a single apple tree, to its current status as a historic symbol of scientific progress and academic excellence, the tree is still respected by centuries of followers and scholars. To the University, Newton’s apple tree represents a tradition of excellence, and the tree is proudly featured on the University’s logo and coat of arms of Trinity College.
The original apple tree, however, is in need of constant protection and preservation. To this end, it is carefully kept in a special place with a metal fence around it and a professional arborist looks after it. Additionally, the Apple Tree Project is an effort to collect saplings from the original tree to prevent it from becoming extinct. This project has been running for over 10 years and has been successful in reproducing the same apple varieties for future generations.
