A Stark County man’s efforts to assist those seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad have been honored again, this time at Arrowhead Golf & Event Center.
The property, which was owned in the 1800s by Jacob Gaskins, now has a tree and two memorials in place to honor Gaskins.
The North Canton Chapter of National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution sponsored the “Liberty Tree” at Arrowhead. The chapter is named for Gaskins.
Born into slavery in 1792 in Virginia, Gaskins overcame adversity to build a successful life. He married Hannah Robinson and became a respected landowner, operated a station on the Underground Railroad to help others seek freedom, and, following ratification of the 15th Amendment, became the first African American to vote in Plain Township.
Liberty Trees are a symbol of trees in the American colonies under which Patriots met in pursuit of liberty, the most famous of which was on Boston Common.
The local chapter’s Liberty Tree serves as a living reminder of the courage, conviction and unyielding hope that inspired the birth of the nation.
The tree was planted July 12 at a dedication ceremony that also dedicated the memorial stone.
Chapter member Paula Tolin led those gathered in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Sarah Witting led the assembly in a recitation of the Preamble to The Constitution of the United States. Chapter recording secretary Melissa Gardner led the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “My Country, ’Tis of Thee.”
North Canton Mayor Matthew Stroia addressed the guests, and Chapter Regent Stephanie Martin Shively presented the history of the Liberty Tree as it pertains to the American Revolution.
The historical marker sharing Jacob Gaskins’ contributions to the country is just to the right of the entrance to the main building at Arrowhead Golf & Event Center. The Liberty Tree is planted a few steps behind it.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: North Canton DAR chapter honors Jacob Gaskins with Liberty Tree
Reporting by Canton Repository / The Repository
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By Canton Repository | USA TODAY Network
