Lorain County plants heritage tree to mark America's 250th anniversary

Lorain County officials and community members gathered on Sept. 5 at Ely Square in Elyria to plant a heritage oak tree as part of Ohio's commemoration of the nation's 250th anniversary. The ceremony at 131 Court St. included remarks from America 250-Ohio Commission member Kathryn Dean-Dielman, Lorain County Commissioner Jeff Riddell and Elyria Mayor Kevin Brubaker before the tree was planted. The America 250-Ohio Heritage Tree Program calls for an oak tree to be planted in each of Ohio's 88 counties as a lasting symbol of the state's connection to the nation's history and its future. Dean-Dielman, a member of the America 250-Ohio Commission and co-chair of its Story Committee, said the statewide commemoration is an opportunity to reflect on the many stories that have shaped Ohio and the country. 'In 2026, America marked its 250th anniversary, a time to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements and look to the future,' Dean-Dielman said. She said Ohio has contributed to the country through its leaders, artists, actors, inventors and others. She also emphasized the importance of preserving stories that may not always receive the same attention. 'There are stories about Americans here before Europeans, the people who called Ohio home,' Dean-Dielman said. Dean-Dielman said the commission has worked on projects to document historic sites and share stories from across Ohio. 'History matters,' she said. 'People need to see themselves in it.' The America 250-Ohio initiative includes more than 1,000 events throughout the state, Dean-Dielman said. For her, the heritage tree program provides another way for communities to participate in the anniversary while creating something that will remain for generations. Riddell said planting the county's tree in Elyria was intentional because the city serves as Lorain County's seat. 'This is the Lorain County tree,' Riddell said. 'It belongs to you.' Lorain County includes 34 cities, villages and townships, and Riddell said the tree is meant to represent all of them. 'We may have 34 individual communities, each with its own identity, traditions and history,' Riddell said, 'but on nights like tonight, we are one Lorain County.' Riddell said the tree's growth can also symbolize the connections between those communities. 'It will start out small,' he said. 'It will establish roots. It will grow stronger year after year.' The tree selected for the program is a swamp white oak, a species native to Ohio and suited to the wet soils found throughout Northeast Ohio. Riddell said the tree can live for hundreds of years under the right conditions. 'You're planting a piece of Lorain County history,' Riddell said. Brubaker said Elyria was honored to host one of the 88 heritage trees being planted throughout Ohio. The city previously had a tree in the area, which was removed after falling, making the planting an opportunity to restore greenery to the square. 'We're thankful that we're able to put a tree back here in our square,' Brubaker said. Brubaker said the tree will allow future residents to connect with the anniversary long after the current celebrations have ended. 'In 50 years, when we celebrate our 300th birthday here in the country, I likely won't be here, but this tree will be a massive tree right here in the park,' he said. The tree will be accompanied by a commemorative plaque installed near the planting site.