The Kile Oak
5939 Beechwood Avenue | Indianapolis, IN 46219
The Kile Oak, a majestic burr oak tree (Quercus macrocarpa), stands as a natural landmark in the Irvington neighborhood of Indianapolis. For over 120 years, it has been preserved and cherished as a symbol of the area’s history and natural beauty.
In 1901, Rev. Oliver W. Kile, a retired Ohio evangelist and Civil War veteran, moved to Irvington and purchased the lot where the oak stands. Captivated by the tree’s size and strength, he built his home next to it. Over the years, the tree became a local treasure, with Kile’s daughter, Mae Kile, continuing to care for it and advocate for its preservation.
The Kile Oak has been recognized for its impressive size—87 feet tall, 5 feet in diameter, and with a crown spanning 122 feet. It holds the distinction of being the largest burr oak within any municipal boundary in Indiana and was named an “outstanding tree” by the Indiana Arborist Association in 1973. In 1976, it was designated a “Bicentennial Tree” in recognition of its estimated age of over 300 years. It also received the National Wildlife Federation’s “Backyard Wildlife Habitat” designation in 2013.
Today, the tree remains a living testament to the past, offering a peaceful welcome to visitors in the Irvington community.
In 2024, the IHLF partnered with the Indiana Arborists Association to develop a care and maintenance program for the short and long term. IHLF was especially appreciative of the relationship when the IAA was able to jump into action when a maple tree crashed down in the fall of 2024. They were able to assess the damage to the property and to the Kile quickly and effectively. Thankfully, there was minimal damage overall, but if not for the IAA, there would have been wide spread panic!
Since the Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation (IHLF) acquired the Kile Oak property in 1973, there has not been a separate set of by-laws specifically governing its care and preservation, similar to the approach taken with the Benton House. In 2025, IHLF is taking an important step to rectify this by establishing a dedicated set of by-laws for the Kile Oak, ensuring that this remarkable natural landmark receives the attention it deserves. By aligning the property’s management with the Indiana Arborist Association (IAA) guidelines, IHLF aims to provide a focused, long-term preservation plan that honors the oak’s historical and environmental significance. This thoughtful approach will help safeguard the Kile Oak for generations to come.
Stewarding the Kile Oak’s Future
The Irvington Historic Landmarks Foundation (IHLF) is proud to partner with the Indiana Arborists Association (IAA) to ensure the Kile Oak continues to thrive for generations to come. This collaboration brings expert guidance and care to one of Indiana’s most cherished natural landmarks. By aligning with the IAA’s best practices, IHLF is creating a long-term maintenance plan tailored to the unique needs of this centuries-old burr oak. Together, we are dedicated to preserving the tree’s health, historical significance, and role as a symbol of Irvington’s natural beauty.
