The Daughters of the American Revolution announced plans for 76 commemorative trees at Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park ahead of America250.
The announcement came in 2017, as preparations intensified for the United States Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The DAR grant supporting the project was worth $380,000, linking the tree planting to a major preservation and beautification effort at one of the country’s most important historic sites.
Independence National Historical Park includes landmarks such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted in 1776. Planting the trees there connected the upcoming 2026 anniversary with Philadelphia’s central role in the founding era.
The number 76 also reflects the year 1776, the date associated with the Declaration and the birth of the United States. Reports said the trees would be planted over several years leading up to the semiquincentennial, rather than all at once. The project should not be confused with Philadelphia’s separate Vision 2026 redevelopment plans for Old City.