MURRAY — In anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the United States, Calloway County has officially established the America250 Calloway County Committee, bringing together local organizations to commemorate the nation’s founding and highlight Kentucky’s contributions to American history.
The committee was formed following a resolution passed by the Calloway County Fiscal Court at their Feb. 18 meeting and includes representatives from:
- Calloway County Fiscal Court
- Captain Wendell Oury Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR)
- Calloway County Genealogical and Historical Society
- Calloway County Public Library
- Calloway County Tourism
- The Doran Arboretum at Murray State University
Kathy Timmons, Regent of the Captain Wendell Oury Chapter, NSDAR has been appointed as the committee chair.
To kick off the celebrations, Calloway County will participate in the statewide Liberty Tree Project, a collaborative initiative led by the Kentucky Historical Society and the Kentucky Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (KSDAR).
To commemorate 250 years of American history, a tulip poplar—Kentucky’s official state tree—will be planted in each of Kentucky’s 120 counties. The Kentucky Division of Forestry has donated all 120 trees to support Liberty Tree planting ceremonies across the Commonwealth.
The Liberty Tree holds deep historical significance as a symbol of unity, resistance, and the pursuit of freedom during the American Revolution. Today, the Liberty Tree Project not only honors that legacy but also serves as a reminder of the importance of conserving Kentucky’s native plant species for future generations.
A planting ceremony will serve as a main event of Earth Day celebrations at The Doran Arboretum at Murray State University occurring on Saturday, April 25th at 1 PM, connecting the commemoration of American history with a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.
We are proud to partner with the Commonwealth in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and to bring that spirit of patriotism home to our community through this tree planting initiative. The “Fiscal Court fully supports the committee’s efforts and looks forward to the official kickoff of these celebrations in April,” said Calloway County Judge Executive Kenny Imes.
“This initiative allows our community to come together in a meaningful way—honoring our nation’s past while investing in something that will grow and endure for generations,” said Timmons.
Residents, families, and community members are encouraged to participate in this historic commemoration and to reflect on the shared roots that connect Calloway County to the broader American story.
Organizations interested in participating in the America250 Calloway County Committee are encouraged to contact the Calloway County Fiscal Court office at 270-753-2920 for more information.
