The Fort Steuben Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was the first Ohio group to plant a liberty tree as part of the Ye Patriot Tree Challenge. Jeanne Vega, past chapter first vice regent, initiated the project. America 250 Chairman Francine Hauldren brought the project to its completion during the group’s October meeting. A liberty elm tree was planted on the grounds of Historic Fort Steuben, with the chapter purchasing the tree from Iannetti’s Garden Center. Scott Iannetti donated the delivery and planted the 20-foot tree, officials stated. The original liberty tree was planted near Boston Common in 1746, serving as a popular meeting place for groups such as the Sons of Liberty, who used it to demonstrate against British policies, DAR officials noted. In 1775, British soldiers cut down the tree to prevent its use by patriot ancestors. Once cut down, liberty trees were planted in hundreds of towns across the colonies. To commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday, the NSDAR encourages chapters to plant these trees as a symbol of freedom.

— Contributed