Tree planting, wreath laying, exhibit dedication for President Hayes' birthday

Spend the afternoon at Spiegel Grove with meaningful events honoring military service and celebrating President Rutherford B. Hayes' birthday on Sunday, Oct. 4. Events begin at 1:30 pm. With the planting of a white oak tree just south of the rose garden and near the president's tomb as part of the Heritage Trees: Planting History program under America 250-Ohio. The Heritage Trees program officially kicked off in Lima, on Arbor Day 2025 (April 25, 2025), and will ensure the planting of a commemorative tree in communities across the state. Spiegel Grove was chosen as the site for Heritage Tree for Fremont because it is the estate of 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife, First Lady Lucy Hayes, as well as an accredited arboretum. "We are so proud to be chosen as the location of the Heritage Tree," said John Havens, Hayes Presidential building & grounds superintendent. "This young white oak will take its place among our majestic trees, some dating back before 1776 here at Spiegel Grove." Immediately following the tree planting, U.S. Military representatives will honor President Hayes' birthday, which is Oct. 4, with a wreath-laying at his burial site. This event includes talks by the military and Hayes Presidential Executive Director Christie Weininger, as well as the playing of "Taps," by a bugler. During the wreath-laying, Hayes Presidential will also dedicate the special visiting outdoor exhibit "Eyes of Freedom," which is honors the Lima Company