Sheridan’s Tree of Hope stands tall

By STEVE MARTIN
Sheridan Historical Society

Back in 2016, Nick Svendsen, an Eagle Scout, had a project that involved planting an “Indiana Bicentennial Tree of Hope” in a public park in each Hamilton County city or town.

Photos provided by Sheridan Historical Society

In Sheridan, this young man planted a beautiful tulip tree in our Veterans Park. As you can see from the pictures accompanying this article, what began as a six-foot sapling has so far grown up to be a 30-foot-tall young tree. Not bad for a nine-year growth spurt. In time, we hope the tree may reach 75 feet tall and live to the ripe old age of several hundred years.

Sheridan’s “Indiana Bicentennial Tree of Hope,” dedicated in April 2016, as a living legacy for future generations, was planted in close proximity to the restored George Boxley Cabin so the Sheridan Historical Society has taken it upon ourselves to be the tree’s steward. We give it nutrient supplements in the spring and fall, and drinks of water during dry spells and thanks to that loving care the tree has flourished and adds beauty and shade to our Boxley Cabin and the surrounding park.

The Sheridan Historical Society wants Svendsen to know we still appreciate his gift, and we are doing our best to give it a good, safe, and healthy home. If you are reading this article, Nick, we would love to have you come back to Sheridan sometime and stop by our museum for a chat and let us take you up to the park for a tree visit. Our museum is located at 315 S. Main St. in beautiful uptown Sheridan, just on the country side of greater Hamilton County and we are open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m.