Liberty Tree Planting Ceremony at Brandywine Battlefield
Earlier this June, Delaware County had the honor of participating in a moment that connected our community with both its history and its future. America250PA, in partnership with the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, hosted a Liberty Tree planting ceremony at Brandywine Battlefield. A site of historical significance and a powerful symbol of the American fight for independence. Now, a new Liberty Tree stands there as a living reminder of those ideals and of our ongoing responsibility to uphold them.
The Liberty Tree Project is one of America250PA’s signature statewide initiatives leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The goal is simple, yet powerful: plant a Liberty Tree in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. These trees serve as lasting symbols of freedom, resilience, and unity values that transcend time and continue to shape our communities today. Delaware County’s planting at the historic Brandywine Battlefield could not have been a more fitting addition to this effort. As the site of the largest land battle of the American Revolution, the battlefield holds a profound place in the story of our nation’s founding. Adding a Liberty Tree here reinforces that history is not just something we visit, it is something we carry forward and continue to shape.
The Brandywine Battlefield ceremony drew an enthusiastic crowd of local residents, civic leaders, and supporters of the project. Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor addressed the audience, underscoring the project’s forward looking spirit: “This is not merely a reflection on the past. It’s a commitment to the future we’re planting today.” Dr. Taylor also spoke about the original Liberty Tree in Boston, where American patriots once gathered to stand up for liberty. "That tree became a symbol of resistance, a beacon of hope, and a rallying point for those who believed in liberty and self governance,” she reminded attendees.
When the British destroyed that tree, new Liberty Trees were planted across the colonies in an act of hope. The Brandywine Battlefield Liberty Tree proudly continues that tradition here in Delaware County, serving as a living connection to the ideals that helped shape our nation.
The planting event was attended by many local leaders, including Council Members Christine Reuther and Elaine Schaefer, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, representatives from Chadds Ford, and staff members from the offices of U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan, State Senator John Kane, and State Representative Regina Young. America250PA Executive Director Cassandra Coleman and Chairman Pat Burns also offered remarks, emphasizing the project’s ability to bring Pennsylvanians together around a shared commitment to freedom and civic engagement. Special recognition was given to Delaware County’s America250PADelco Director Andrea Silva.
Delco's Liberty tree was made possible through sponsorship by Patrick J. Burns and The Delaware County Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Delco DAR was represented by Chapter Regent, Stephanie Herman and members including Trish Young, Cora Pinhak, Sue Mescanti, Barb Shaw, Bobbie Kelly, Carris Kocher, and Carol Davis. The Color Guard unit of the Philadelphia chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution joined in bringing history to life.
As the newly planted Liberty Tree takes root, it serves as both a tribute to the past and a beacon for the future. Dr. Taylor closed her remarks with, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” The act of planting this Liberty Tree ensures that future generations will have a living reminder of the importance of liberty, community, and civic responsibility and the role we all play in preserving them. The Liberty Tree Project is more than a series of ceremonial events. It is a statewide call to reflection, education, and unity. Each planting encourages Pennsylvanians to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us while recommitting ourselves to building a more inclusive and vibrant future. Delaware County is proud to take part in this important initiative. The tree now standing at Brandywine Battlefield is a living symbol of that commitment and of the bright spirit of our community and our nation.