Tree warden proposes Liberty Tree, plans July 4 ceremony at Black River High School

Phil Carter, Ludlow’s tree warden, told the Recreation Committee he has arranged for a donated “Liberty Tree” to be planted on the front lawn of Black River High School to mark the nation’s 250th and Ludlow’s 265th anniversaries. Carter said Ballard Hobart Post #36 covered the cost and that a plaque and bulletin board will commemorate the planting. “We are hoping for this one to do the same,” Carter said, referencing the longevity of historic Liberty Trees.

Committee members discussed when to hold a short dedication ceremony as part of the town’s July 4 schedule. Penny Wu said the parade “would begin at Benson’s and end at Veteran’s Park,” where most events will run from about 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Phil proposed a 9 a.m. ceremony to maximize attendance. Scott Baitz and Joe Gurdak supported the earlier time, with Scott noting a morning ceremony would likely draw a larger crowd than midafternoon.

The committee discussed logistics including an arborist to oversee the planting and plant health during the first year; Carter confirmed an arborist will supervise the project for a year. Committee members asked for follow-up on arrival timing and event coordination; Carter said materials have been ordered and work has been done to plan the dedication. The committee did not take a formal vote but agreed to incorporate the tree dedication into the July 4 run of show and asked staff to return with scheduling details.