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Tree CircusScotts Valley’s bizarre “Tree Circus” drew national attention in the 1950s. It was the creation of Axel Erlandson, who cleverly bent and grafted tree trunks into various shapes. Although long gone from Scotts Valley, some of the trees were transplanted to Gilroy Gardens, where they continue to grow. (Photo courtesy of the Capitola Historical Museum)
Tree CircusScotts Valley’s bizarre “Tree Circus” drew national attention in the 1950s. It was the creation of Axel Erlandson, who cleverly bent and grafted tree trunks into various shapes. Although long gone from Scotts Valley, some of the trees were transplanted to Gilroy Gardens, where they continue to grow. (Photo courtesy of the Capitola Historical Museum)

Scotts Valley’s bizarre “Tree Circus” drew national attention in the 1950s. It was the creation of Axel Erlandson, who cleverly bent and grafted tree trunks into various shapes. Although long gone from Scotts Valley, some of the trees were transplanted to Gilroy Gardens, where they continue to grow. (Photo courtesy of the Capitola Historical Museum)