Barkhamsted – The Barkhamsted Historical Society tree dedication to long term resident Robert “Bob” Judd at the Squire’s Tavern on Saturday afternoon could not have been more perfect. Beautiful weather, autumn foliage, exceptional speeches by all speakers and a turnout of thirty plus people made this the impeccable commemorative event for Alice Judd who was the honorable guest as Robert’s widow.

Three speeches were made before the unveiling of the plaque before the Chestnut tree, planted in Judd’s honor, as a tree enthusiast and historian who documented all native trees to Barkhamsted as a volunteer for the Historical Society.

Noreen Watson, President of the Barkhamsted Historical Society, opened the commemoration with her remarks.

Kristina Napolitano, gave a lengthy and fascinating speech about the historic details of the chestnut tree, and its importance in its role in early America before the blight came in that destroyed a record amount of native trees on a monumental scale.

Paul Hart, Vice President of the BHS, focused on Bob’s early life and how he came to be a proud Barkhamsted resident and lover of trees after years of camping in People’s Forest as a boy.

Alice Judd has been a long time member of the BRTC and is a Deacon at the Barkhamsted Center Church. She has many friends. Thank you to the many who showed up yesterday to partake in this occasion. The Barkhamsted Republican Town Committee is proud to have donated to Robert Judd’s tree who was a true patriot concerned about the future of America as well as its past.