NEWARK – The Dawes Arboretum dedicated a post oak tree to the America-250 Ohio Commission on Sept. 18 as part of Ohio’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
America 250-Ohio is leading the statewide celebration.
The Board of Trustees chooses tree dedications at the arboretum to “honor individuals or groups of outstanding achievement in the stream of human history, or events of significance to The Dawes Arboretum.” Tree dedications began in 1927.
“Being honored with a tree dedication at The Dawes Arboretum, a tradition dating back nearly a century, is a distinction we are tremendously grateful for,” Todd Kleismit, America 250-Ohio executive director, said.
“This recognition reflects the work of communities in all 88 Ohio counties who have embraced America’s 250th anniversary and helped bring our Heritage Trees initiative to life. We’re honored to have a piece of that story now rooted at Dawes for generations to come.”
America 250-Ohio brings communities together and connects Ohioans with events, educational programs, cultural experiences, and stories that highlight Ohio’s unique role in American history.
America 250-Ohio invites everyone to discover, celebrate and reflect on Ohio’s contributions to the American history. Initiatives range from historic trails and murals to community readings and under-told stories.
Tree planting part of Heritage Trees program
Ceremonial tree plantings have occurred throughout Ohio since 2025. The plantings are through America-250 Ohio’s Heritage Trees: Planting History program.
Dawes, Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Holden Forests & Gardens, Keep Ohio Beautiful, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Rowe Arboretum, and Secrest Arboretum partnered to create the program.
Trees that are chosen for tree dedications show promise of a healthy and long life. Click here to find a specific tree dedication. Click here to see the list of trees that have been dedicated at the arboretum.
“This is the 10th tree dedication I’ve overseen on behalf of the arboretum board during my time as historian at The Dawes Arboretum,” Historian, Leslie Wagner, said. “Being able to commemorate this organization during such a historic year is an absolute privilege. Today, we honored the America-250 Ohio Commission and America.”