A commemorative pecan tree will be planted at Jim Hogg City Park in Quitman Saturday, Oct. 31, in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary.

The tree will be planted in front of the park’s Ima Hogg Museum as part of the America Ed and Rachel Don250 celebration, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

“The tree will be set in front of the park’s Ima Hogg Museum to replace the tree that was recently damaged by a storm,” Museum Director Delene Allen said.

Ed and Rachel Donnelly, owners of Bob Wells Nursery at Sorelle Farms in Mineola, are helping sponsor the project by donating toward the cost of an established 3- to 4-yearold Native American pecan tree. Ed Donnelly will deliver the tree Saturday morning.

The project is being coordinated by members of the Elizabeth Denton English Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), with member Linda Haddock leading the effort as a service project.

DAR volunteers have also been working alongside Allen, a fellow chapter member, to restore the Ima Hogg Museum and prepare it for tours.

“America’s 250th anniversary gives us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to plant a tree as a marker during this milestone year,” Allen said.

The DAR will place a commemorative plaque near the base of the tree to recognize the anniversary. The planting coincides with the annual Old Settlers Reunion, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, at Jim Hogg City Park.

The pecan tree will replace one lost to storm damage while serving as a lasting reminder of the nation’s 250th anniversary.