When the Šmits family reclaimed their ancestral homestead "Medņi" after the Soviet occupation, Kārlis Šmits discovered a magnificent oak tree along his childhood paths on the banks of the Aģe River. It had been overgrown with shrubs and riverside trees, but after being cleared, it was revealed in all its glory, stretching its branches over the river from the edge of the steep bank. It was named the Aģe Great Oak. Over the last 15 years, the oak has inspired members of the family to learn about great trees and to realise that Latvia, with the second-highest density of great trees after Great Britain, is a European powerhouse for ancient trees. It inspired the birth of the Spēkozols (Power Oak) movement, served as the starting point for the Spēkozols hike, and inspired the Šmits family and their friends and acquaintances to plant a new grove of twenty-seven Power Oaks. The Aģe Great Oak has become the most popular great tree in the Vidriži parish and, quite possibly, in the entire Limbaži region. It is visited by many travellers, geocachers and enthusiasts of Latvian heritage. Along with the national awakening and the restoration of independence, the oak has opened itself to the world to delight, educate and inspire!