Do You Remember Amber, Iowa’s Hula Hoop Tree?

I was feeling a little nostalgic today. It feels weird saying it, but the covid pandemic years were a great opportunity to get even closer to my wife and kids. No where to go. Places closed up. The outdoors was a beacon of escape, hope, and normalcy in an otherwise scary and confusing time for so many. And man, did my family take advantage of the outdoors. But it wasn't always trips to parks and hiking areas. Sometimes it was a simple stop by my grandmother's house in Amber, Iowa and seeing an interesting attraction known on it's Facebook page as "Her Majesty."

Have you ever heard of Amber, Iowa's Hula Hoop Tree?

In the heart of Eastern Iowa stood a once majestic oak tree, adorned with a whimsical array of hula hoops. For years, this beloved landmark captured the hearts of locals and travelers alike, earning it the endearing moniker above. Its branches, once barren and scraggly, were transformed into a vibrant display of color and joy, thanks to the plastic hoops that began appearing as early as 2015.

The origin of the first hula hoop to grace the tree remains shrouded in mystery, with tales ranging from a celebratory toss on a 40th birthday, to an act of frustration amidst marital discord. Regardless of its beginnings, the tree quickly became a symbol of community spirit and creativity, drawing visitors from across the Midwest who marveled at its whimsy and snapped countless selfies in its presence at a time when daily life was anything but certain.

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Over the years, the old oak became more than just a tree; it became a beacon of hope, joy, and unity for the small community of Amber and the state of Iowa. Locals credited the landmark with drawing visitors who might never have ventured near the quaint town (Amber / Anamosa / Monticello), infusing the area with a sense of excitement and wonder.

However, like all things, 'Her Majesty's' reign faced challenges and an abrupt ending. A devastating fire in 2017 left the once-lively oak tree lifeless and potentially unsafe. Concerns about liability and safety began to mount in 2019, prompting discussions among the Jones County Board of Supervisors. While the tree remained a beloved attraction, the safety of visitors was said to be paramount.

Ultimately, the decision to remove the tree came from the landowner, Jon Zirkelbach, a Jones County supervisor. Despite efforts to defend the tree and calls for compromise, safety concerns prevailed. 'Her Majesty' was taken down, leaving behind a void in the landscape and in the hearts of those that cherished her.

As news of the tree's removal spread, an outpouring of sadness and nostalgia swept through social media. Memories, photographs, and stories flooded in, each one a testament to the profound impact 'Her Majesty' had on the lives of so many, touched by her magic.

In the end, the Hula-Hoop Tree wasn't just a tree adorned with plastic hoops, it was also a symbol of community, resilience, and the simple joys that bring us together, especially when we were all being pulled apart and isolated. While her branches may no longer sway in the wind, I'm glad I got to visit "her" while she was standing tall and vibrant.