The America250PA initiative, in proud partnership with the Pennsylvania Freemasons, celebrated a Liberty Tree Dedication Ceremony at the Centre Furnace Mansion on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

The ceremony began with opening remarks from America250PA representative Christian Cassidy-Amstutz, followed by a presentation of the colors by members of the 21st Masonic District. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by District Deputy Grand Master of the 21st Masonic District John R. Segursky, and the National Anthem was played in tribute to the nation's heritage.

Worshipful Master of State College Lodge No. 700, Douglas J. Madenford, offered an opening prayer, reminding those gathered of the tree’s symbolic power and the responsibility each citizen carries in preserving liberty. “May we be reminded that all of us are called to duty as citizens of this great land, and may these trees remind us of our calling.” Madenford declared.

Special remarks were delivered by Centre County Commissioner Mark Higgins and Executive Director of the Centre County Historical Society Mary Sorensen, both reflecting on the importance of honoring the past while shaping the future.

“I hope that we remember not only the majesty of this tree having descended from Liberty Trees that have been around since the 1700s, but also remember what this tree stands for: the connection of even the most disparate branches and leaves—coming together to compose these magnificent trees—the need need to commit to preserving our environment so our nation can continue to thrive,” said Higgins.

“We are honored to see this new Liberty Tree take root beside the historic Sycamore that has stood on these grounds since before the writing of the U.S. Constitution. Together, they symbolize the continuity of American ideals—liberty, resilience, and hope,” said Sorensen.

The highlight of the afternoon was the formal dedication of the Liberty Tree, marking Centre County’s role in commemorating 250 years of American independence. The event closed with a benediction, again offered by Worshipful Master Madenford, lifting up the service and sacrifice of those who have defended freedom across generations.

Rooted in history and hope, the Liberty Tree now stands as a reminder of the values that unite us—and the work still to be done to protect them for generations to come.

“America250PA is truly a historic Commission that provides the Commonwealth a platform to showcase our Pennsylvania pride on the national stage,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA. “We are most appreciative of the partnership with the Pennsylvania Freemasons. Without their support, this project would not be possible.”

This living tribute honors the original Liberty Trees, where American patriots, including the Sons of Liberty, gathered during the Revolutionary War to plan resistance against British rule. Following the destruction of the original Liberty Tree in Boston, similar trees were designated throughout the colonies as enduring symbols of freedom. The last known Liberty Tree stood on the campus of Saint John’s University in Maryland before being lost to Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Today, descendants of that historic tree live on through saplings grown from its seeds—one of which will now take root in Centre County.

As part of the America250PA Liberty Tree Project, one certified Liberty Tree will be planted in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties between now and the United States of America Semiquincentennial Celebration in 2026. The Centre County planting represents a partnership among the Pennsylvania Freemasons, America250PA, the Centre County Historical Society, and local stakeholders, including The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Eagle Iron Works, Curtin Village, the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society, and others.

“We encourage residents and visitors alike to experience the Liberty Tree at Centre Furnace Mansion—one of the most significant historical sites in Happy Valley,” said Fritz Smith, President and CEO of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau. “It’s a place where our community’s past and future intersect, and this new Liberty Tree is a meaningful addition to the story we invite guests to discover.”

This project is part of a broader effort by America250PA: Centre County to showcase the region’s transformation across centuries. Guided by the theme Then & Now, Centre County’s commemorative work traces its evolution from a hub of iron-making and agriculture to a center of innovation, education, sustainability, and tourism.

About America250PA

America250PA hopes to engage all citizens of the Commonwealth, from each of its 67 counties, to participate in creating a statewide celebration and bringing the Commonwealth's history into the conversation. That shared history gives us the foundation to better understand the origins and diverse viewpoints on the challenges affecting both our Commonwealth and our nation. The Commission's ability to communicate its vision, engage various audiences, and encourage inclusive and cohesive participation is key to a successful America250PA. The visionary framework – especially our E.P.I.C. theme of Educate, Preserve, Innovate, and Celebrate—contains the essential messaging to bring the Semiquincentennial to life across the Commonwealth.

For more information, visit www.america250pa.org.