Community plants state tree to spotlight the country’s 250th anniversary

The United States of America gained independence 250 years ago, and to recognize the milestone, communities across Kentucky are planting tulip poplar trees. Despite the Monday morning rain, a ceremony was hosted to spotlight the tree planted in Christian County.

The tulip poplar tree is the Kentucky state tree, and according to the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, the tree can grow to be up to 200 feet tall, it produces flowers in the spring and its leaves turn yellow during the fall.

Christian County Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam compared the trees' growth to his goals as a local official. He says the tree will provide shade for the next generation if it is taken care of by leaders. As judge executive, he says it’s his goal to take care of Christian County and make it a better place for his children to work and live.

The tree was planted in front of the Hopkinsville-Christian County Visitors Bureau, and Gilliam says the spot was chosen so that it can be on display for travelers visiting the county.

The tree plantings are a part of the Liberty Tree Project, which is a collaboration between the Kentucky Society of Daughters of the American Revolution, the Kentucky Historical Society and Kentucky’s Forestry Division. The goal of the project is to plant one tulip poplar tree in all 120 counties.