Commentary: Liberty Trees will be dedicated, commemorating USA's 250th

The original Liberty Tree was a large elm located near the Boston Common. It became a popular meeting place for Boston citizens in the 1760s. The Sons of Liberty, a secret society of men who advocated for the rights of colonists, met at the tree, staged protests to British taxation and rule, and hung effigies of British officials from its branches. The Liberty Tree continued to be a place for demonstrations, tarring and featherings of Royal officials, and displays of mock executions under the tree. It didn’t take long for other towns and cities across colonial America to begin designating liberty trees for places of protest to British taxation.

In 1775, understanding its significance, Loyalists and British soldiers cut this mighty elm tree down and burned it. While the Liberty Tree no longer existed, it continued to be a powerful symbol in the colonies.

The Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution have planted Liberty Trees across the country as visible symbols of unity, resilience, and liberty.

Gorge dedication details

Please join the members of Celilo Chapter, DAR at any or all of these events as they dedicate these trees and remember those who helped win the liberty that we continue to enjoy. The dedications will take place as follows, all beginning at 11 a.m.:

Wednesday, June 10 — Daubenspeck Park, Bingen

Friday, June 12 — IOOF Cemetery, The Dalles

Wednesday, June 17 — Mann Park, Hood River

•••

Nancy Slagle is a member of the Celilo Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and holds the rank of Honorary State Regent for Oregon. Chapter meetings are generally held on the third Wednesday of the month, September through June, at 11 a.m. in The Dalles. For more information, visit www.celilochapterdar.weebly.com.