Neighbor News
Salem Dedicates a Liberty Tree June 6
Salem plants a Liberty Tree to honor the service and sacrifices of community patriots
Salem’s Role in the American Revolution to be Highlighted at Dedication of Liberty Tree
On June 6, 2026, at 9:30 AM Mayor Dominick Pangallo will lead a ceremony at which an American hybrid elm tree will be planted and named Salem’s Liberty Tree. The tree will be in downtown Salem on Church Street, in the green mall in front of St. Peter’s Church, where there is a granite memorial with plaques honoring patriots Benjamin Peirce and Major General Stephen Abbot.
“We are excited to mark both the 250th anniversary of America and Salem’s own 400th by honoring Salem’s role in the fight for independence and continuing the tradition of the Liberty Tree,” said Mayor Pangallo. “The original Liberty Tree, an elm near Boston Common, was a rallying point of defiance against British authority over the American colonies. Salem’s Liberty Tree honors the service and sacrifices of our community’s patriots who answered the call during the American Revolution. This American hybrid elm will grow into a glorious shade tree and long be a fitting tribute to their memory. I am grateful to the City staff, local historians, and volunteers who worked to make this happen, and to DCR for donating this important tree to our community.”
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Benjamin Peirce was a baker from Salem who fought in the bloody Battle of Menotomy (Arlington today) on April 19, 1775. He was the only Minuteman from Salem killed in this battle. His service was honored in a Bicentennial plaque in 1975.
Major General Stephen Abbot, a successful merchant in Salem, served as a Captain in the Continental Army. He continued his military career, forming the Second Corps of Cadets in Massachusetts, which served in the Civil War, World Wars I & II, and continues to this day as part of the Massachusetts National Guard.
Find out what's happening in Salemfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Joining the Mayor at this event will be historian Charles Newhall and Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker. Forester Dave Bresnahan will represent The Department of Conservation & Recreation which has donated the American hybrid elm for the event. The Danvers Alarm List Company led by Henry Rutkowski will provide an honor guard.
The public is invited to attend this dedication.
