Burn Ban in Effect. All outdoor burning is prohibited in Franklin County.
The Liberty Tree mosaic mural was unveiled to the public during Countryfest, where visitors admired the completed artwork and searched for tiles they had personally painted during community paint parties organized by the Choctaw Trace DAR Chapter and the Franklin County Arts Alliance.
An official dedication ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, October 24 at 2 p.m. at the Mt. Vernon Square. Mayor Ostertag will issue a proclamation honoring the project alongside DAR dignitaries. The public is invited to attend the event, which will celebrate the mural’s role as a lasting tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.
The project began with a vision presented by Regent Cynthia Weidman and grew into a community-wide effort involving hundreds of participants who painted more than 600 of the mural’s 863 tiles. Businesses, organizations, and residents contributed their creativity, while local donors provided financial support. A special thank you to these for donating to the Liberty Tree: Key Club, American Legion Post 243, Franklin Co Crime Stoppers, JT Rental, Franklin County Arts Alliance, National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution America 250 Project, the Hammond’s family, Becky Hunnicutt, Milano’s Pizza, and Choctaw Trace DAR Chapter.
Construction of the mosaic began in late September with Mike Williams completing the installation. RX Construction and Remodeling, LLC restored and prepared the wall for the mural’s placement on the south wall of Kountry Korner Kreations facing Main Street.
The Liberty Tree stands as a symbol of community pride and shared participation, preserving the contributions of local residents as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
