Historic Anne Frank sapling makes its way to Staten Island campus

Ambius recently transported a historic sapling tree to Wagner College on Staten Island on behalf of the Anne Frank Center USA, marking the latest chapter in an ongoing partnership between the two organizations.

The sapling was picked up from Vallonia Nursery in Indiana and transported to Wagner College over a 12-to 13-hour journey, completed safely over two days. During transport, the sapling was carefully secured to prevent movement or damage. Ambius’ team closely monitored the tree throughout the journey, managing temperature conditions, balancing light exposure and ensuring the overall transit time remained under 48 hours to minimize stress on the plant.

A tree Anne Frank described repeatedly in her diary as a symbol of hope, the sapling is descended from the original horse chestnut tree that stood outside her hiding place in Amsterdam. Through Anne Frank Center USA’s Sapling Project, it will serve as a living memorial for the Wagner College community.

“This isn’t a typical transport job, and our team recognizes its significance,” said Lorri MacHarg, President of Ambius. “This sapling has already undergone a remarkable journey to reach this point and our team is dedicated to its secure and appropriate delivery. This demands both specialized care and technical expertise, a standard we are rigorously upholding.”

Every driver supporting the transport volunteered, each bringing horticultural experience and a shared commitment to preserving the integrity of this living piece of history.

“Each sapling represents a living link to Anne Frank’s story and the values she stood for,” said Dr. Lauren Bairnsfather, CEO of Anne Frank Center USA. “By placing these trees at educational institutions like Wagner College, we ensure future generations can engage with history in a meaningful, lasting way. We are grateful to Ambius for the care and expertise they bring to safeguarding these saplings on their journey.”

The sapling is planted at the Wagner College Holocaust Center, where it will serve as a permanent educational resource for students and the broader campus community.

“For Wagner College, this sapling is not only a memorial, but a living educational resource,” said Professor Lori Weintrob, director of the Wagner College Holocaust Center. “It stands on our campus as a daily reminder of Anne Frank’s voice and our responsibility to engage students in the lessons of courage, human rights and remembrance.”

For more information:
Ambius
https://www.ambius.com/