Indian Princesses join Hawthorn Woods staff to plant seedlings

The Cherokee Tribe of the Indian Princesses organization worked with staff from the Hawthorn Woods public works and parks departments on April 18 to plant 31 red oak trees in Hawthorn Woods Community Park, near Old McHenry and Quentin roads.

The trees were planted strategically in Community Park along a walkway to create an oak grove for the community to enjoy, Hawthorn Woods Public Works Assistant Director Matt Bartlett said.

"We are appreciative for the opportunity to work with the Indian Princess families to make this improvement to Community Park in celebration and honor of Arbor Day," Bartlett said.

Four- to five-foot-tall red oak seedlings were purchased by the Hawthorn Woods Environmental Committee from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Mason State Tree Nursery in Topeka, Illinois.

Hawthorn Gardens, 24481 N. Old McHenry Road in Hawthorn Woods, provided pots, seeds, and potting soil for the princesses to create their very own take-home plants. Each princess also received a complimentary seedling tree to take home, courtesy of the Hawthorn Woods Environmental Committee.

Twenty-six families, made up of 31 Indian Princesses and 25 adults, came together for this Arbor Day initiative project. The day taught the children stewardship, environmental awareness, and community involvement.

"I was so amazed and proud of the community spirit as the Cherokee Tribe of Indian Princesses came together with our public works and park departments to plant the red oak trees in support of Earth Day," said village Trustee Neil Morgan, who attended the event.

"The girls had a fabulous time, even naming their trees. I know the girls and their families will return to Community Park often to check on the growth of their trees, and will feel a sense of pride knowing they helped shape our park for generations to come," Morgan said.