This tree is one of two oaks gifted by Mr. Andrew Aitken of "The Glen" and planted on September 10, 1919, in memory of Mr. William Gilchrist and his son, Lance Corporal John (Jack) Gilchrist. Jack, William’s son and a former student, died at sea on October 25, 1914, while en route to war [1].

William Gilchrist had served as the school's headmaster from 1891 to 1912 and was very highly regarded in the local community. Socially he was much sought after by literary and debating societies, for which he frequently lectured and gave addresses on Scottish life in the 'Borderland' [2]. Gilchrist was also editor of the very popular Young Peoples' Column in the 'Mataura Ensign', under the nom de plume of 'Uncle Phil' for many years. He encouraged children across the country to develop their writing skills and corresponded with them regularly [3].

Mr. Aitken, assisted by the school's gardener, Mr. Newman, planted the trees in the presence of a large gathering, including parents, teachers, several committee members, and school children. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

The tree is listed as TREE-29 on the Gore District Plan tree schedule (Cadwallader, 2025).

References
[1] Papers Past, National Library. EAST GORE SCHOOL. Memorial Oaks Planted. Mataura Ensign, 11 September 1919, Page 5.

[2] Electric Scotland, "William Gilchrist – A New Zealand Borderer," www.electricscotland.com/history/nz/gilchrist_william.htm (accessed March 3, 2025).

[3] Papers Past, National Library. ERMEDALE NOTES. Western Star, 19 September 1916, Page 2.