The Greenwich Tree Conservancy (GTC), along with the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Town of Greenwich, joined in planting a Liberty Tree on the lawn in front of the Greenwich Board of Education on Thursday, September 17.
From left to right: Jonathan Fasone, David Wold, Kate Dzikiewicz, Dr. Toni Jones. Photo courtesy Greenwich Tree Conservancy
The newly planted American elm was dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and in honor of the Greenwich residents who fought for American independence.
David Wold, of the Connecticut Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, organized the event and led the tree planting.
“With proper care and attention, an American elm can live for more than 250 years,” said Kate Dzikiewicz, executive director of the Greenwich Tree Conservancy. “It is entirely possible that this very tree could still be standing here when the people of future Greenwich are gathering to celebrate America’s 500th birthday.”
“This American elm will serve as a living reminder of the people and ideals we are honoring here today,” said Dzikiewicz.
The tree was donated by the Greenwich Tree Conservancy. Dzikiewicz also highlighted the significance of choosing an American elm for the occasion.
“American elms were once among the defining trees of the American urban landscape. Dutch elm disease devastated elm trees across the country, yet some survived and endured,” Dzikiewicz said. “To me, these survivor elms are symbols of resilience. We hope this elm will become a symbol of growth through adversity, of a community coming together beneath green leaves, and of the promise of a future yet to come.”
Jonathan Fasone, of the Town of Greenwich Parks & Recreation Department, read First Selectman Fred Camillo’s proclamation declaring September 17, 2026, as 250th Constitution Day in Greenwich. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Toni Jones was also on
hand for the tree planting.