America 250: Heritage Tree Dedication with Martha Washington & Revolutionary War Soldier

BATAVIA, OHIO (Oct. 8, 2025) – A revolutionary-style celebration!

Living historians portraying Martha Washington and a Revolutionary War soldier are joining officials today at Sycamore Park in Batavia to dedicate Clermont County’s America 250 Heritage Tree.

The ceremony, which was free and open to the public, is part of a series of ongoing events this year and next in Clermont County that commemorate America’s semi-quincentennial.

The dedication of the swamp oak took place at the Clermont County Sycamore Park’s recently completed sun deck by the East Fork of the Little Miami River.  Tours of the deck and nearby swinging bridge occurred around noon. The tree dedication was at 12:30 p.m.

There were about 40 people there with 19 dignitaries at the ribbon cutting for the event where the Swamp Oak Heritage Tree was planted in Clermont County Ohio.  Note that a Swamp Oak tree is to be planted in all Ohio Counties in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

Angela Carpenter with the Clough Valley chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution  shared anecdotes about President and Gen. George Washington.

Michael Gunn with the Cincinnati Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution talked about  the origins of the Liberty tree and how its destruction by the British fed the Revolution.  Michael discussed the patriotic effect in early Clermont County and east within the Military District, and his ancestor’s life as a patriot and Dragoon in the 3rd Continental Light Dragoons.  This group also served as George Washington & Martha’s Guard.

Clermont County commissioners David Painter, Claire Corcoran and Bonnie Batchler attended the ceremony along with officials with the Clermont Park District, Clermont County Chamber of Commerce and Clermont County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Attached is a brochure provided for the event:

Heritage Tree Dedication in Batavia, OH