Local DAR Chapter unveils location of Liberty Tree on Earth Day 

PERRY — The General Daniel Stewart Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution hosted an unveiling of a Liberty Tree on Wednesday. The tree honors the country’s 250th birthday and memories of patriots of the American Revolution. 

The tree is a tulip poplar located behind the Houston County Extension Office. 

Liberty trees were seen as powerful symbols leading up to the American Revolution, as colonists gathered around a large elm tree in the Boston Commons to protest. 

Regent of Chapter, Claire Swinford, said the liberty tree represents freedom. 

“The Liberty tree was no mere plan, it became a visible statement of unity, courage and resistance,” she said. “They were reminders that liberty was rooted in community [by] growing, branching and uniting people from different backgrounds.” 

Swinford shared that modern Liberty Trees remind us that history is not only preserved in archives but also lives and breathes in our landscapes.  

“Each planting ceremony connects present day citizens to patriots who once gathered under branches or around poles to proclaim their determination for freedom,” she said. 

Second Vice Regent Beth McLaughlin said this tree symbolizes the ideals that have shaped our nation: freedom, justice and hope. She said the tree is a living memorial honoring our ancestors while also inspiring future generations. 

“These Liberty Trees are a visual reminder that the roots of freedom must always be nurtured and protected,” she said. 

This specific Liberty Tree, tulip poplar, is native to Georgia and some live to be over 350 years old. McLaughlin said these trees have seen the birth of our country. 

“This tree will commonly reach 70 to 100 feet tall, and within 15 years it will grow to be about 40 feet tall providing a lot of shade,” she said. 

The DAR hopes this tree will grow tall and strong and inspire everyone who sees it.