July 1 - 3 marks the 162
nd anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and while Middletown is an hour away from the site and the battle was more than a century and a half ago, a piece of history from what historians call the turning point of the Civil War is on the grounds of Middletown Area Middle School (MAMS).
A grafted branch from a locust tree that witnessed the Battle of Gettysburg was gifted to MASD nearly two decades ago by Middletown graduate and current Magisterial District Judge Michael Smith to commemorate the opening of MAMS. The branch has grown into a tree that today stands more than 20 feet tall, and located outside the main entrance of the school. The tree is appropriately named The Witness Tree. The Witness Tree’s famous ancestor also bore witness to the Gettysburg Address and the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery.
MAMS social studies teacher Mr. Ken Britcher calls the tree a living testament to history and a remarkable living monument that serves as a powerful reminder of our nation's historical struggles and sacrifices. The tree is also the site of the school’s annual Constitution Day flag retirement ceremony.
| The Witness Tree's ancestor can be seen in the center of this photo. This photo shows the crowd gathered for the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, where President Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address. President Lincoln is visible, facing the crowd, not wearing a hat, about an inch below the third flag from the left. Photo credit - Library of Congress website. |
| The Witness Tree today at Middletown Area Middle School. |