Standing at the place called "Bonsvau" on the edge of the villages of Meix-le-Tige, Willancourt, and Châtillon, according to Mr. Jean-Marie Lambert, this tree is between 150 and 200 years old. Before the merger of the municipalities in 1977, it was called "The Oak of the Three Cantons" because, at that time, Châtillon was part of the canton of Etalle, Meix-le-Tige of Messancy, and Willancourt of Virton. And yet, this oak tree has never experienced any communal or cantonal conflict!
Mr. Maurice Simonet, a resident of Châtillon and member of the St-Léger history circle, explains: "There was a large iron cross nailed to the trunk. The metal served as a conductor for lightning, which struck the tree at least twice, probably three times. The large hole at its base was caused by lightning." The latter has skirted the cross from top to bottom, leaving a clearly visible mark. It was stolen around the year 2000, then replaced by a potale, also stolen. It is filled with nails, for unknown reasons. For Jean-Marie Lambert, DNF agent, nails are a votive offering. An ex-voto is a votive offering made to a god in request of a favor or in thanks for a favor obtained following a vow made to that effect. These objects can take many forms and be made of many materials. In 2002, it was listed as a remarkable tree. Mr. Lambert certifies that the inscription "Chêne des 3 communes" on the tree dates from before the merger of the municipalities.