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J. Sterling Morton creates Arbor Day

J. Sterling Morton creates Arbor Day

Arbor Day originated in Nebraska in 1872, when the State Board of Agriculture adopted J. Sterling Morton’s resolution that April 10 of that year be set aside for tree planting. The board awarded premiums for the greatest number of trees, cuttings, and seeds...
Arbor Day Ceremonies Plant New Trees at Schools

Arbor Day Ceremonies Plant New Trees at Schools

  Arbor Day originated in Nebraska in 1872 through the efforts of J. Sterling Morton and the State Board of Agriculture. The day became a legal holiday in the state in 1885 when the Legislature set aside April 22, Morton’s birthday, as Arbor Day. It has...
Arbor Day Origins

Arbor Day Origins

Arbor Day began inauspiciously as one of a number of efforts to encourage the planting of trees in barren Nebraska. The State Board of Agriculture had offered a prize of $50 for the best and largest grove of timber planted in 1870, and $25 for the second best and...
J. Sterling Morton’s War on Christmas Trees

J. Sterling Morton’s War on Christmas Trees

As you prepare to take down your tree after the holidays, here’s Nebraska Hall-of-Famer J. Sterling Morton with a cup of holiday cheer for you. Morton (1832-1902) is usually remembered as the founder of Arbor Day and the builder of Arbor Lodge in Nebraska City. Most...