Warren County Plants ‘Liberty Tree’ to Honor America’s 250th Anniversary

Warren County took part in a national effort to honor America’s founding by planting a tree rooted in history.

On May 2, 2026, the Col. James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, joined the Front Royal/Warren County Tree Stewards to plant a Burr Oak at Lions Community Park. The tree was placed in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

The planting is part of a larger program launched by the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. The initiative calls for Liberty Trees to be planted in every state as a way to celebrate the nation’s semiquincentennial, or 250th birthday.

The tradition of Liberty Trees dates back to the early days of the American Revolution. In Boston, Massachusetts, a large elm tree more than 100 years old became the first to earn that name. On August 14, 1765, colonists gathered beneath its branches to protest the Stamp Act. During the protest, a group that would later be known as the Sons of Liberty hung an effigy of a British tax collector, showing their opposition to taxation without representation.

The idea quickly spread across the colonies. Communities began naming their own Liberty Trees, using them as gathering places to support resistance against British rule. These trees became lasting symbols of unity and defiance.

In August 1775, during the siege of Boston, British troops cut down the original Liberty Tree. The act was meant to send a message against the growing rebellion, but instead it strengthened the colonists’ resolve.

Volunteers prepare the Burr Oak for planting at Lions Community Park during a Liberty Tree ceremony on May 2.  Below, participants listen to a presentation on the history and meaning of Liberty Trees during the May 2 ceremony at Lions Community Park. Photo courtesy of Michelle Phillips.

The newly planted Burr Oak in Front Royal continues that legacy. Organizers say a plaque will be installed in August to recognize the nation’s founding and explain the importance of Liberty Trees.

Several local volunteers took part in the event. Representing the Tree Stewards were Johnny Goodine, Linda Bartlett, Joan Grewe, Bill Grewe, Henry Pickard, Ron Perlik, John Cermack, and Nancy Sabella. Members of the Sons of the American Revolution included Bryan Buck, Sean Carrigan, Dale Corey, Chip Daniel, Allan Phillips, and Marc Robinson.

As the country prepares to mark 250 years of independence, the tree at Lions Community Park stands as a living reminder of the courage and unity that helped shape the United States, and the communities that continue to honor that history.