Pleasanton Scout Builds Benches From Historic Tree

New benches installed in the city repurpose wood from a landmark tree planted in the late 1890s.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Local Services

Screen-print poster illustration of handcrafted walnut benches in a park, reflecting a community project repurposing historic timber. — Eagle Scout candidate Prithvi Sukamar has revitalized local history by building five community benches using timber reclaimed from a landmark walnut tree in Pleasanton. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Pleasanton Eagle Scout candidate Prithvi Sukamar has built five community benches using wood reclaimed from a historic walnut tree on Martin Avenue. The project honors the legacy of local pioneer Henry P. Mohr, who planted the original tree in the late 1890s.

Why it matters

This initiative preserves a piece of local history by repurposing timber from a landmark tree, preventing its loss after the tree was removed in 2025. It also fulfills a critical community service requirement for Sukamar to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

Five benches were constructed from the reclaimed walnut tree, which was planted in the late 1890s. This project supports a goal achieved by only 4%-6% of eligible scouts nationwide.

The players

Prithvi Sukamar

A Foothill High School senior and member of Scouts BSA Troop 941 who led the bench construction project.

Henry P. Mohr

A local historical figure who planted the walnut tree and served as a bank president for two decades.

Scouts BSA Troop 941

The local scouting unit that assisted with the design, permitting, and construction process.

The details

The project involved a lengthy process of design, obtaining official city permits, and manual construction. Scout leaders and troop members from Scouts BSA Troop 941 provided essential assistance, including woodworking tools and labor to cut the heavy logs. The wood originated from a historic tree on Martin Avenue that had been planted by Henry P. Mohr, a figure noted for his role as a former local bank president and school board member.

Late 1890s: Henry P. Mohr planted the walnut tree.
2025: The walnut tree was cut down on Martin Avenue.
October 2026: Prithvi Sukamar completed his project around the time of his 18th birthday.

Administration
Oct. 27
Pleasanton School Board Approves $1,200 Monthly Stipend

The Home Front

This bench project highlights how community service can successfully repurpose local historic resources for public utility. It aligns with efforts to preserve the character of the Pleasanton Valley while providing functional seating for local public spaces.

Residents can enjoy these new benches, which represent a successful example of utilizing reclaimed materials from historic trees on private or public plots. When planning your own yard updates, consider checking local regulations if you intend to reuse mature wood from historic trees on your property.

The takeaway

This project serves as a model for how scouts can preserve neighborhood legacy through community service. Residents interested in similar historical preservation efforts should contact the city's parks or planning departments to discuss potential site enhancements.