LYNN – Community members gathered on the Common Wednesday to celebrate Liberty Tree Day and the planting of a new Harmony-type American Elm with funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service.

“I’m really grateful for everyone who came out to celebrate Liberty Tree Day,” said Erica Holm, City Forestry Officer. “I think it’s great that the Mayor is on board to improve our urban tree canopy and practice holistic urban forestry.”

During the ceremony, Mayor Jared Nicholson and Councilwoman Nicole McClain helped place the final ceremonial shovels of soil and mulch on the trunk of the American elm.

Nicholson issued a mayoral proclamation declaring August 14 as Liberty Tree Day in the city.

Liberty Tree Day celebrates the planting of the first public shade tree in 1646 near Boston Neck, a place where many British settlers met to discuss “unfair policies.”

He added that the elm became a rallying point during the American Revolution, prompting the British government to order its felling in 1776.

“This made the Liberty Tree a symbol of American freedom and a testament to the right of people to peacefully assemble,” Nicholson said.

Nicholson said the proclamation marks a new chapter in the city’s history as it makes changes to the tree population and improves the quality of the trees.

“The City of Lynn needs to actively work to improve urban forestry,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the City Council, McClain said the Liberty Tree is a powerful symbol of freedom and resistance.

“The Liberty Tree reminds us that freedom is not just a gift but a responsibility whose protection and preservation in our modern world requires vigilance and courage,” she said.

McClain added that people must therefore remember that trees are vital and necessary.

“By valuing and investing in trees, we are investing in the future of our city, in the quality of life of all who live here, and we are affirming democracy by providing beautiful spaces for planning equity,” she said.