Montana's DAR Markers . . . Honoring Where History Was Made

The tree chosen for the site was a Tatarian maple because its leaves
turn the brightest red of any tree available of those allowable for
planting at the State Capitol complex. Since red in the U.S. Flag
symbolizes the strength, courage and valor of American Patriots, this
species of tree was selected to perpetuate the memory and spirit of our
Patriots during the 125th Anniversary.
Among State Regent Hamman’s comments were these:
Historically, our lineage societies have planted trees since we were
founded. Planting trees is deemed to be a good way to honor the
Patriots in our family trees, as well as contribute to the beauty and
health of our communities. Trees propagated from those planted by
George Washington and Thomas Jefferson abound across the land.
During World War I, Oro Fino Chapter partnered with SAR to
purchase and plant Colorado blue spruce trees in Helena’s new city
parks. In 1926, our Society marked the 150th anniversary of the
American Revolution by contributing funds to help plant 13 trees,
one for each Colony, in Independence Park in Philadelphia. In May
1932, DAR and SAR officers gathered to plant a Washington Elm
tree right next to the Montana capitol. In 2017, NSDAR provided
$220,000 for the planting of 76 trees in Independence Park to
prepare for our nation’s Semiquincentennial which will begin in
2026, and currently we are planting 250 trees along a Pathway of
Patriots to honor the memory and perpetuate the spirit of the men
and women who achieved American Independence. So, for our 125 th
Anniversary in Montana, it is fitting that we plant this attractive
Tatarian maple for the next generation.
After members of both organizations placed shovels-full of soil
around the newly-planted tree, concluding the tree-planting ceremony,
197