JOURNALIST MORTON PLANTS TREES, TRANSFORMS LANDSCAPE

By Councilman Brian Livesey

of trees and shrubs in what was a primarily a flat stretch of desolate plain. As a journalist, Morton began writing stories on the value of trees and the need to plant more in the virtually treeless region. His ideas began to resonate.

On January 7, 1872, Morton proposed a day that would encourage all Nebraskans to plant trees in their community. The agriculture board agreed, and after some back-and-forth about the title—the event was originally going to be called “Sylvan Day” in reference to forest trees—Morton convinced everyone that the day should reflect the appreciation of all trees, and “Arbor Day” was born.

Arbor started back in the 1870s in Nebraska City. A journalist by the name of Julius Sterling Morton moved to the state with his wife, Caroline, in 1854, a little more than 10 years before Nebraska gained its statehood in 1867. The couple purchased 160 acres in Nebraska City and planted a wide variety

Matawan is proud to take part in this 151 year old event. Come join the Matawan Shade Tree Commission on April 29, 2023 at Borough Hall on Broad Street. We will be planting a tree in honor of Arbor Day, honoring our Arbor Day Poster Contest winners from Ravine Drive School, and distributing over 250 free saplings. Shade Tree members will be on hand with information about planting and tree care.