06/08/2026
Mayor Charles Ward Invites Public to Ozark's Liberty Tree Planting Ceremony to Celebrate Nation's Semiquincentennial
By Jeff Devine
OZARK — The City of Ozark will commemorate America's upcoming 250th anniversary with a Liberty Tree planting ceremony on Saturday, June 20, inviting residents to gather for a celebration of the nation's history, values, and future.
The event, hosted by Mayor Charles Ward and the City of Ozark, will begin at 8 a.m. at the Ozark Farmers Market, located at 244 East Avenue N.
As part of the ceremony, city officials will plant an elm tree designated as a Liberty Tree, a historic symbol associated with American independence and the pursuit of freedom. According to the city, the tree will serve as a lasting reminder of freedom, unity, and the enduring spirit of the nation's founders.
The ceremony is part of ongoing efforts across the country to recognize the United States' semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Communities nationwide are planning events and projects leading up to the milestone anniversary in July 2026.
City officials said the Ozark event will feature patriotic reflections, music, and opportunities for community fellowship as residents come together to honor America's past, celebrate its present, and look toward its future.
The public is invited to attend the ceremony.
The Liberty Tree tradition dates back to the American Revolution, when colonists gathered beneath designated trees to discuss issues of liberty and resistance to British rule. Over time, Liberty Trees became enduring symbols of patriotism and civic engagement throughout the United States.
For Ozark residents, the newly planted tree is expected to stand as a long-term reminder of the nation's heritage and the shared values that continue to unite communities across generations.
