Tree of Freedom facts for kids
The book Tree of Freedom is a historical novel for young readers. It was written by Rebecca Caudill. The story takes place in Kentucky during the time of the American Revolutionary War. It's about a family who are pioneers, meaning they were among the first people to settle new land. The book has drawings by Dorothy Morse. It was first published in 1949 and was recognized as a Newbery Honor book in 1950.
The Story of Tree of Freedom
What Happens in the Book?
The novel follows the Venable family: Jonathan, Bertha, and their five children. In the year 1780, they travel a long way from North Carolina to Kentucky. They want to "homestead," which means they plan to settle on 400 acres of land and build a new life there.
When they arrive, they build a cabin, plant crops, and raise animals like chickens and cows. The 13-year-old daughter, Stephanie, plants an apple tree. She calls it her "tree of freedom."
Challenges for the Venable Family
The family soon finds out that someone else claims their land. This person is a "British sympathizer," meaning they supported Great Britain during the American Revolutionary War.
As the war gets closer to their new home, attacks by Native American groups become more frequent. Jonathan, the father, starts working as a "courier." This means he carries important messages for the Governor of Virginia.
Stephanie's older brother, Noel, joins a military group. This group goes on an "expedition" (a journey for a specific purpose) against Native American groups. Their leader is George Rogers Clark, a famous soldier from the American Revolutionary War.
