Maryland's Liberty Tree Project: A Living Tribute to Independence

As the nation prepares to observe the 250th anniversary of American independence, Maryland is re-establishing a powerful connection to its revolutionary roots through the Maryland Liberty Tree Project. This initiative promises to plant a living descendant of the historic 1775 Annapolis Liberty Tree in each of the state's 23 counties plus Baltimore City by the end of 2026, creating a unified natural commemoration of this significant milestone in American history.

The Significance of the Liberty Tree Project

The Annapolis Liberty Tree holds a distinctive place as the last surviving Liberty Tree from the era of the American Revolution. Originally chosen by local patriots in 1775, this tree witnessed the fervor of liberty and resistance against tyranny. Although the original tree has since fallen, scientists and conservationists have preserved and propagated a genetically identical descendant, ensuring that its legacy endures. Each seedling planted through the Maryland Liberty Tree Project will come from this living scion, symbolizing continuity with the inception of American liberty.

The project has emerged as a collaborative effort involving important organizations such as Preservation Maryland and the Maryland Center for History and Culture, along with support from various state and environmental entities. The Maryland250 Commission has played a crucial role in aligning this initiative with broader heritage celebrations commemorating America's journey toward independence.

Katie Caljean, president and CEO of the Maryland Center for History and Culture, reflects on the project’s weighty responsibility: "Maryland was home to the last surviving Liberty Tree of the American Revolution. By planting its descendants in every jurisdiction, we are ensuring that Maryland's central role in the story of American independence is visible, living, and growing."

Nicholas Redding, president and CEO of Preservation Maryland, underscores the dual significance of the seedlings: "These seedlings are living witnesses to our past and investments in our future, symbolizing both the courage of 1776 and our duty in 2026 to steward our history, communities, and natural resources."

Environmental Stewardship and Community Engagement

A notable aspect of the Maryland Liberty Tree Project is its contribution to environmental sustainability. All seedlings have been cultivated in Maryland, with the propagation efforts led by dedicated volunteers including Champ Zumbrun from the Allegany County Forestry Board. This step reinforces Maryland's commitment to long-term environmental stewardship while also rooting critical historical narratives in the present day.

Furthermore, this project harmonizes with Maryland's ongoing 5 Million Trees Initiative, which aims at enhancing green spaces and promoting biodiversity across the state. By merging historical significance with ecological responsibility, the Liberty Tree Project encourages communities to recognize how the values symbolized by the Liberty Tree remain relevant to contemporary environmental challenges.

As part of this celebratory initiative, five regional events will take place, culminating in a kickoff event in Annapolis on Maryland Day, March 25, 2026. This celebration will be held at the William Paca House and Garden, setting the stage for the tree planting ceremonies. Residents are encouraged to participate in the festivities as their communities break ground on these historical living monuments.

Get Involved

For those interested in learning more about the Maryland Liberty Tree Project, including specific planting locations and information about upcoming events, visit www.mdlibertytree.org. Join the movement to honor Maryland's crucial role in the revolutionary narrative and to contribute toward a greener, more historically aware future.

In essence, the Maryland Liberty Tree Project stands as a living tribute to the perseverance and bravery of those who fought for independence. Each newly planted tree not only serves as a remembrance of a pivotal moment in American history but also as a promise to nurture our environment and engage our communities in honoring these shared values for generations to come.