A centuries-old white oak tree in Basking Ridge will be cut down because it is dying.

The tree is believed to be about 600 years old. It was already centuries old in 1717 when the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church was founded, and the town was subsequently was built. George Washington is said to have relaxed in its shade, and Revolutionary War soldiers are buried near the tree.

The church says it plans to take down the tree next year.

It is raising some of the tens of thousands of dollars needed for the removal process through public online donations.