EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – The City of East Providence’s 250 Commission will be hosting a Liberty Tree Planting Ceremony in cooperation with the Office of the Rhode Island Secretary of State and Preserve Rhode Island. Liberty Tree plantings have, and will be held, across Rhode Island’s 39 cities and towns to mark the Semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “The Red Maple tree, Rhode Island's state tree, will serve as an ongoing reminder of both Rhode Island and the country's spirit of defiance, unity, and freedom during the American revolution,” said the Secretary of State’s Office. The Liberty Tree will be planted at Walker House in the weeks preceding the celebration.
The event, held on Sunday, May 3rd at the historic Philip Walker Homestead from 1:00-4:00PM, and is open to the public free of cost. Featured at the event will be self-guided tours of Walker House (c. 1724), a rare opportunity as this property is typically closed to the public. Other activities include historically inspired children’s games provided by the East Providence Historical Society and a flower/planting station run by the GFWC Wampanoag Women’s Club.
Highlights of the ceremony will include opening remarks by Secretary of State Gregg Amore, and remarks from East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva, as well as a history of Walker House given by renowned historian Ronald Onorato. The ceremony will conclude with a performance by the 13th Continental Regiment, which will include live musket fire.
Sunday, May 3rd from 1:00-4:00PM. Walker House is located at 432 Massasoit Ave, East Providence. Entry is free and no reservation is required. Limited parking will be available at the Massasoit Office Park (400 Massasoit Ave, East Providence), and free street parking is available along Massasoit Ave. and King Philip Rd.
About the East Providence 250 Commission: The East Providence 250 Celebration is a year-long tribute to the resilience, progress, and unity of our community. This historic milestone serves as a bridge between our storied past and our promising future, bringing neighbors together through civic engagement, shared history, and a communal vision for the city’s next chapter.
