CRAWFORD COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Under clear autumn skies at Heckert Nature Preserve, community members, county leaders, and elementary school students gathered Friday morning, October 3, to witness history take root.

A native Swamp White Oak, now officially designated as Crawford County’s Heritage Tree, was planted as part of the America 250-Ohio Heritage Trees Program, commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

The ceremony, hosted by the Crawford County History Alliance (CCHA) in partnership with the Crawford Park District, marked Crawford County’s official kickoff for America 250-OH celebrations.

The event brought everyone together to commemorate the county’s role in the nation’s history. Randy Fischer, CCHA Chair, along with the Crawford County Commissioners, and Crawford County Park District Executive Director Lori Morey, delivered remarks highlighting the significance of the occasion and the community’s commitment to preserving history and natural beauty.

Planting a Symbol of Unity and Legacy

The Heritage Tree program, spearheaded by the America 250-Ohio Commission, will provide each of Ohio’s 88 counties with a native white oak tree to honor the nation’s semi-quincentennial in 2026. The program celebrates local history, environmental stewardship, and the enduring spirit of liberty symbolized by the original Liberty Tree in Boston, where patriots once gathered during the Revolutionary era.

Community Leaders Join in the Ceremony

CCHA President Randy Fischer expressed pride in seeing Crawford County play its part in this statewide tribute. “We are excited to have this event as our county’s first America 250 celebration,” Fischer said. “This Heritage Tree represents not just our shared history, but the collaboration and spirit that make Crawford County such a special place.”

Engaging the Next Generation

Students from Bucyrus Elementary Schools’ Principal Advisory Committee and others played a special role, enthusiastically participating by watering the newly planted white oak tree after the ceremonial soil was shoveled, symbolizing the community’s investment in future generations. After the tree was planted, students enjoyed a guided nature walk through Heckert Preserve led by a Crawford Park District Naturalist.

The celebratory event also featured educational resources and hands-on learning for the students, including a story walk about the American Revolution-era “Liberty Tree” made possible by the Bucyrus Public Library.  Former local schoolteachers Mary Lee Minor and Sarah Gebhardt led interactive activity tables—exploring tree rings, crafting necklaces from wood slices, and creating paper lanterns inspired by those hung from Boston’s Liberty Tree to celebrate the repeal of the Stamp Act.  Students and attendees alike also enjoyed a symbolic taste of “Liberty Tea.”

County Commissioners Tim Ley, Larry Schmidt, and Jeff Price each spoke about the tree’s symbolism of unity, resilience, and remembrance. The County Commissioners, together with Crawford Park District Commissioner Kyle Hartman, CCHA Projects Director Elaine Naples, all ceremonially shoveled soil onto the newly planted Swamp White Oak—rooting the Heritage Tree in both community and history.

“It’s wonderful to see so many gathered here today—our county leaders, community members, and especially our students—who represent the future of Crawford County,” said Jeff Price, Crawford County Commissioner, in his welcoming remarks.  

“Today, we’re not just planting a tree; we’re planting a legacy. This white oak will grow tall and strong long after we are gone, reminding future generations of the values, history, and patriotic spirit we celebrate together,” noted County Commissioner Larry Schmidt.

“The strength of a community, like that of a tree, comes from its roots,” said Commissioner Tim Ley. “May this tree stand as a reminder that we all grow stronger together.”

Honoring History at a Historic Site

The choice of Heckert Nature Preserve was especially meaningful. Located near the site of the Battle of Olentangy, one of the last military actions of the Revolutionary War’s Western Theater, the Heckert Nature Preserve provides a fitting backdrop for a tree symbolizing liberty and perseverance.

“This place already holds great historical and natural significance,” said Crawford Park District Lori Morey. “Now, with this Heritage Tree, it becomes a vibrant, living monument to our county’s and our nation’s story.”

Growing for Generations to Come

Before the final shovelfuls of soil were placed, Morey reflected on the tree’s enduring symbolism. “Just like the people of Ohio, the white oak represents resilience, adaptability, and strength,” she said. “This tree will live on for centuries—serving as a place for reflection, education, and connection for generations yet to come.”

The event concluded with applause and a shared sense of pride in knowing that, like the Liberty Tree of old, Crawford County’s Heritage Tree will stand as a living testament to freedom, community, and hope.

About the Crawford County History Alliance

The Crawford County History Alliance (CCHA) aims to unite, preserve, and promote our local history. For more information and a list of member organizations, please visit the Crawford County History Alliance website.

The Crawford County Commissioners designated the CCHA as the lead organization to activate, manage, and promote programming & historical events related to America 250-Ohio celebrations across Crawford County starting in late 2025 and all throughout 2026.

Sponsored By

The Heritage Trees program is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Cenovus Energy. The program was created in partnership with Dawes Arboretum, Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Holden Forests & Gardens, Keep Ohio Beautiful, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Rowe Arboretum, and Secrest Arboretum.

Photo Gallery: Crawford County History Alliance