Introduction to a Peaceful Legacy
20 years ago, on October 14, 2005, Yoko Ono visited Coventry Cathedral to plant a new pair of oak saplings as a symbol of peace. This event marked a significant moment in her peace campaign, which she had started with her late husband, John Lennon, in 1968. The city of Coventry held a special place in their hearts as it was where they first introduced their peace message to the public.
The Beginning of a Peace Campaign
In 1968, John Lennon and Yoko Ono traveled to Coventry to introduce their sculpture, Acorns for Peace, in an exhibition at the cathedral. The artwork consisted of a round white wrought iron seat surrounding two acorns, which over time grew into a living sculpture. The couple had carefully planned the placement of the acorns, planting them in eastern and western locations to symbolize their meeting and the union of their two cultures. A plaque reading "Yoko of John, John of Yoko" marked the beginning of their peace campaign.
A Symbol of Unity and Peace
The acorns were sent to world leaders as part of their anti-war message. However, their visit in 1968 sparked a dispute with the cathedral authorities, who eventually moved the installation, angering Lennon. The acorns were later dug up and stolen by Beatles fans. Despite the challenges they faced, the couple remained committed to their peace campaign. In 2005, Yoko Ono returned to Coventry Cathedral to plant Japanese oak trees, continuing the legacy of peace that she and John Lennon had started.
Preserving a Piece of History
The two oak trees planted by Yoko Ono in 2005 stand on Cuckoo Lane near the cathedral ruins. The original acorns are now on display at the Beatles Museum in Liverpool. A retired police officer, Mike Davies, discovered the acorns in his possession while tidying up before his retirement. The acorns had been taken to Nuneaton police station by a man who was caught drink-driving outside Bedworth. The driver and his girlfriend, fans of the couple, had stolen the acorns and covered them with clear nail polish for preservation.
Legacy of Peace Lives On
A replica of the bench made for the Theater Absolute play "The Lennon Bench" is now on display at the Coventry Music Museum. The legacy of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s peace campaign continues to inspire people around the world. The oak trees planted in Coventry serve as a reminder of the power of peace and unity. Yoko Ono’s return to Coventry Cathedral in 2005 demonstrated her ongoing commitment to the cause, ensuring that the message of peace and love that she and John Lennon started would live on for generations to come.
