This was just discussed and posted a picture in April.

Here is a link that might be useful: Paulownia tree

I thought it might be paulownia ... except chezron said the leaves are like pecan leaves (which are compound leaves and paulownia has simple leaves).

I don't think the locust blooms are purplish, but everything else fits the description and it is in the pea family.

Here is a link that might be useful: Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust)

Esh, you are correct! Thank you. Now I can sleep at night lol:) I imagine every year you get questions on the ubiquitous Paulownia. I have an additional question and that is --Is there a different species of Robinia or a related tree that blooms earlier, but with little bundles of white,leguminosae- type flowers?

The link I gave you was for the white one. I guess the one you are seeing now might be Robinia hispida, it has pink blossoms.

Certainly, there are several kinds of locust, just not sure what their range is.

Yes, for those us that dislike paulownia, the annual questions are tiresome! I think paulownia is mostly done flowering now.

Here is a link that might be useful: Robinia hispida

If you think you are interested in the locust tree--be aware that the natural varieties have mega thorns. There is a hybrid w/out thorns.
I have always wanted a paulonia tree because when it is young it has huge leaves--I have used them to make stepping stones--if you cut it back every year you can just have new growth with huge leaves every year. frankie Lynn

After reading this post, the first tree that came to mind was chinaberry, melia azedarach. I noticed that the local chinaberry trees have been blooming the past few weeks. Their flowers are purple or lavender, and are noticeable but not particularly showy. Their leaves are compound, similar to that of a pecan.

Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/trees-new/melia_azadarach.html

Southwebb,
You are right. It is the chinaberry tree, thanks. Chezron