A huge oak tree planted at the birth of our nation grows in the middle of two small farms. The farm houses are home to a four-year-old boy and a six-year-old girl. The children's attraction to the tree becomes the centerpiece of their lives and the foundation of a deep friendship. Their bucolic world is destroyed when a plot to destroy the tree for its valuable wood is hatched by the evil mayor of the town. The plan is executed with the aid of the parents resulting in a series of tragedies for the little town. The mayor goes on to become the governor as the town is left to mourn its losses. The allegory ends with an admonition to anyone who loves their children and cares about their future.