Crawford County to plant white oak “Heritage Tree” at Heckert Preserve for America 250 commemoration

CRAWFORD COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—A special ceremonial tree planting will take root in Crawford County next month as part of the “Heritage Trees: Planting History Program” leading up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

The event, which is the Crawford County History Alliance’s (CCHA) official kick-off for America 250 celebrations, is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m. at Heckert Nature Preserve.

The Heritage Trees initiative, spearheaded by the America 250-Ohio commission, commemorates the nation’s semi-quincentennial by planting native white oak trees in all 88 Ohio counties throughout 2025 and 2026. The program draws historical inspiration from the original Liberty Tree in Boston during the Revolutionary War period.

The white oak was chosen for its durability and native status in Ohio.

Crawford County’s white oak will be planted at Heckert Nature Preserve, a location specifically chosen for its proximity to the Battle of Olentangy, one of the last major operations of the Revolutionary War in the “Western Theater.”

Following the ceremonial planting, the CCHA will offer educational resources, including a story walk detailing tree rings and the history of the Liberty Tree, as well as a guided nature walk through the preserve led by a Crawford Park District Naturalist.

“We’re excited this Heritage Tree Planting is the kick-off to an incredible year in 2026 to celebrate America’s 250th birthday,” said Randy Fischer of the Crawford County History Alliance. “As the CCHA, we are thrilled to plan and coordinate programming to celebrate our nation’s historic event.”

The CCHA is collaborating on the event with the Crawford Park District, the Bucyrus Public Library, and the Crawford County Commissioners. The CCHA, which unites 14 local historical and cultural non-profit organizations, was designated by the County Commissioners as the lead organization for America 250-Ohio programming across the county.

The Heritage Trees program is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Cenovus Energy, in partnership with several arboretums and conservation groups across the state.

The tree planting at Heckert Nature Preserve is expected to make the site an even more meaningful place where history, community, and natural beauty converge.