In 1876, not long after the giant sequoia trees were (re)discovered by settlers in California, a cross section of a large tree was sent to the east coast where it was dismissed as a hoax. The giant sequoias still seem like a hoax when viewed up close; their scale is truly enormous. Although I am glad that they are protected now, it would have been an amazing sight to see them being logged. I highly recommend visiting Sequoia National Park if you have the chance.