In a display of community spirit and a commitment to historical preservation, the Nimmonsburg-Hillcrest Rotary donated a descendant of the maple tree from the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum to Port Dickinson Elementary School. This special tree traces its lineage back to the original maple at the homestead where Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, grew up.

The donation was made possible through American Heritage Trees, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s rich history by cultivating trees descended from those associated with historical figures and events. This initiative connects the past with the present in meaningful ways. The tree will not only enhance the beauty of the campus but also serve as an educational tool, teaching students about environmental care and the inspiring history of Amelia Earhart.

On May 6, the sapling was planted on the school's campus, between the playground and the future site of an outdoor learning center near the Port Dickinson Elementary pond. This placement further enriches the educational opportunities to come.

The planting of this tree celebrates new beginnings, deeply rooted in American heritage.