The Tale of the Old Oak and the Bench If you reside in Lambeth, then you will be aware of the story that followed the old oak tree on James Street that had to be taken down and caused quite a stir in the community at the time, back in February 2022.
Anna Hopkins, the area’s City Counsellor, estimated that the oak was between 300 to 400 years old. In its prime, it was a majestic “mighty oak”. Unfortunately, due to disease, it needed to be removed and Paul Bilyea of Cardinal Carpentry, who has roots in Lambeth, thought it was an indignity to the old tree to just throw its remains out, so he convinced the city crew to dump off the cut parts at his place so he could figure out if something could be salvaged. Most of it was rotten and unable to use, but the parts that were still any good, Paul had milled into boards, and they have been air drying ever since at his property.
Paul has decided to make a bench to honour the tree and its history in Lambeth and is going to donate it in his family’s name back to Lambeth as soon as a proper location has been decided upon. The current thoughts about location are either back where the tree originally came from, or if it would be best to sit at Lambeth Arena, Library or Community Centre. Paul’s thoughts on this were that since many people would probably be wondering what ever happened to the oak that this bench would make a great historical piece for the community. Paul’s father, Don Bilyea lived across the street from the old oak for many years, and so Paul knows the history and sentimentality that surrounded this tree. The bench is now complete and is waiting for placement. Until then it can be seen in Cardinal Showroom at 165 Exeter Rd. Paul also wanted to let people know that if they would like a souvenir of the oak, there are still some pieces available for anyone who would like some. Just drop into Cardinal Carpentry to get it. Above: Paul and Don Bilyea.
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Lambeth Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 3
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