John Graves Simcoe may have a special day in Toronto but he has a very special place in the hearts of those who know the story of Penn’s Treaty with the Indians.

During the American Revolution, Lt. Col. Simcoe and the Queen’s Rangers found themselves at redoubt #1 along the Delaware River in the area now called Philadelphia. This very successful military leader had Loyalists from the area serve with the Queen’s Rangers. They had many victories over the Americans in local battles.

But it is a benevolent Simcoe who is fondly remembered today.

When the young Lt. Col. arrived in 1777 in an area of Philadelphia known as Kensington, he realized that he was very near the venerable Treaty Tree. He knew that this great Elm tree was the place where the Lenape and other Indians made a Treaty of Friendship with William Penn in 1682. He was concerned that the Elm would be cut down. Trees were being cleared in the area and wood used for building, fence posts, wagon wheels and sniper cover that allowed the rebels to shoot at British soldiers.

Years later, Simcoe related to Benjamin West that he sent guards to protect the Treaty Tree from the axe. John Graves Simcoe knew the story of Penn and the Indians from West’s famous 1771 painting, “Penn’s Treaty with the Indians.” Simcoe had been in England when the painting, which became an inspiration for many popular images, was unveiled.

The unusual act of guarding the Treaty Tree saved it from destruction. The tree flourished for almost 40 years until it fell in 1810, the result of a terrible storm. The fallen tree had seedlings and scions removed for plantings that continued the lineage. Simcoe’s generosity kept “tree children” and the story alive for future generations.

On September 21, 2015, International Day of Peace, the day before the World Meeting of Families begins and four days before Pope Francis arrives in Philadelphia, another event will take place that reminds us of the story of peace and friendship that took place in 1682. A sculpture by international artist Bob Haozous, placed on the land near the site of the Treaty Tree and two blocks from redoubt #1, will finally be illuminated. Without Lt. Col. Simcoe’s extraordinary act, we probably would not have descendants of the Treaty Tree and a park and monuments that celebrate a moment in time when people truly wished to live in harmony.

Thank you, General Simcoe
www.penntreatymuseum.com