The legend of the "weeping" trees and their "tears" dates back to 251 AD. According to the legend, Saint Isidore of Chios was martyred.
He was a Roman naval soldier who, while on the island, confided to his commander that he professed the Christian faith.
After his death, the trees in the southern part of the island of Chios began to "weep" with mastic. Hence, according to legend, the name "tears" of Chios.