Evergreen: The Trees That Shaped America

Join Cornell University professor Trent Preszler and New York Times reporter Katherine Rosman to celebrate Preszler’s new book, Evergreen: The Trees That Shaped America, a sweeping natural history of the humble trees that built nations, sparked wars, and became the world’s most cherished holiday tradition.

In Evergreen, Preszler weaves together a captivating story of humanity’s deeply rooted relationship with evergreens, revealing how the trees shaped economies, launched cultural movements, and propelled America’s rise to global prominence.

Blending cinematic detail with compelling ecological and cultural history, Preszler explores the hidden tensions between nature, commerce, and spirituality that have confounded humanity for millennia. At once expansive and intimate, Evergreen delivers a stirring reflection on the quiet power of trees, challenging us to reconsider the delicate balance between our restless ambition and the living world that sustains us.

This in-person event at The Explorers Club Headquarters will include an audience Q&A. A book signing will take place after the talk, with books available for purchase.