A spirit of patriotism and community filled Dotson Park on Friday, as local leaders and residents gathered for the Liberty Tree Dedication, marking Princeton’s role in the nationwide America250 celebration.
Before the ceremony began, the Caldwell County High School Band of Pride, directed by Mason Henry, performed patriotic music, and junior Allison White sang “America the Beautiful.”
click to download audioRegent Carolyn Traum from the General John Caldwell Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution welcomed attendees to the special dedication ceremony.
click to download audioBrother Presley Lamm of Fredonia First Baptist Church delivered the invocation, Dotson Park Board President Geneva Malone led the pledge, and Barbara Poulnot of Shephard Street Baptist Church led the singing of the National Anthem.
Mayor Brock Thomas guided the crowd in reading the Preamble to the Constitution.
click to download audioThe Captain William Prince Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution presented the Posting of the Colors.
Traum then recognized Historical Society member Karen Marlowe, a Caldwell County High School graduate now living in Frankfort, who was at the event, and gave special thanks to Princeton Public Works, local leaders, and others who helped make the day possible.
Traum then introduced Judge-Executive Kota Young, who read about the history and significance of the Liberty Tree, calling it “a powerful symbol of unity, freedom, and the enduring spirit of our nation.”
click to download audioHe explained that the story begins in Boston, where a stately elm on Boston Common became the first and most famous Tree of Liberty in the decade before the American Revolution.
click to download audioAs the story goes, the movement for liberty and revolution grew, the tree stood as a powerful symbol of unity and resistance until August 1775, when loyalists and British troops cut it down in an attempt to erase its meaning.
click to download audioAfter his remarks, Traum officially dedicated the Liberty Tree and its newly placed marker.
The event concluded with a benediction led by Nancy Clement, chaplain of the General John Caldwell Chapter of the DAR.
Listen to the full dedication ceremony using the audio link below:
