The Hanging Tree of Araxá
The story of the “Hanging Tree” in Araxá, Minas Gerais, is shrouded in mystery, legends, and historical facts that reflect a dark period of slavery in Brazil. The tree, of the species Pau de Óleo, located in the Alto da Boa Vista neighborhood, lived for about 200 years and became a symbol of local culture, mainly due to the tragic events that took place around it.
Origin and Historical Context
In the 19th century, during the period of slavery, the “Hanging Tree” is said to have been the site of the execution of two enslaved people. The most commonly told story is that these slaves were condemned for the murder of their master. After a trial, they were hanged on the tree, which had a significant impact on the local community. Public executions like this were not uncommon at the time, especially in places where the slave system was strong, such as Araxá.
Legends and Myths
After the hanging of the slaves, a series of legends began to emerge. Residents of the region reported that, on certain nights, the tree seemed to “cry,” emitting strange sounds interpreted as the souls of the slaves crying out for justice or lamenting their tragic deaths. This belief contributed to the tree being seen as a symbol of resistance and suffering for the black population.
Over the years, the “Hanging Tree” became a point of reference in the city, not only for its grim history but also for what it came to represent in terms of memory and cultural identity. The tree was declared a historical and cultural heritage site, reinforcing its importance to the city and its inhabitants.
Decline and Death of the Tree
The tree lived for about two centuries but died of natural causes in 2011. Even after its death, the trunk and dried branches were preserved on the site, serving as a silent monument that reminds us of the injustices of the past.
Current Relevance
Today, the “Hanging Tree” remains an important symbol in Araxá. It is remembered in the city’s oral histories and traditions, mentioned in academic works, books, and other forms of cultural recording. The tree also serves as a reminder of Brazil’s legacy of slavery and the need to preserve historical memory so that tragedies like this are not forgotten.
Associated Myths and Legends
In addition to the “crying” sounds, some say that on certain days, the shadows of the hanged slaves can be seen on the dried branches, a myth that reinforces the aura of mystery surrounding the tree. Some versions of the legend also mention that the tree had the power to cure diseases, particularly respiratory problems, a belief that led many people to seek it out for relief.
The “Hanging Tree” remains a point of historical and cultural interest in Araxá, a place where the past and present meet, and where legends continue to fuel the popular imagination.
