Deep in the heart of Texas, quite near the state's geographical center, stands a beautiful live oak about which many interesting legends have arisen. If asked, San Saba romantics may refer to the tree as the “Matrimonial Altar,” the “Marriage Oak,” the “Matrimonial Oak,” or the “Wedding Oak.”

Long before the Spanish invaded this rich San Saba River bottomland, where native pecans grow in profusion, Indian braves and shy Indian maidens met and were united in wedlock, as local legend has it, beneath this oak's sheltering boughs. Later, in horse-and-buggy days, the tree was a popular spot for matrimonially-inclined residents of the area to visit and exchange pledges and marriage vows. The tree was also a legendary place for Indian council meetings.

The Matrimonial Oak is just outside the city limits of San Saba, on the east side of China Creek Road, about half a mile south of the San Saba River, which courses north until it empties into the Colorado.

From US Hwy. 190 in San Saba. turn right on 9th Street, then left on China Creek Road (CR 200) and go one mile to the Matrimonial Oak.