Inside the Governor’s Residence: The Story of The Redemption Tree
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Christmas trees can carry all sorts of themes, but few hold the profound significance of The Redemption Tree inside the Ohio Governor’s Residence and Heritage Garden. This extraordinary tree is not only a centerpiece of holiday beauty but also a beacon of hope and resilience, showcasing the spirit of giving back to the community.
A Symbol of America’s Legacy
This year, The Redemption Tree celebrates a landmark occasion—the 250th anniversary of the United States—by featuring handmade ornaments and decorations in a vibrant palette of red, white, and blue. Among the decorations are symbols of early American history, including nods to the founding fathers, making it a truly meaningful tribute as families and visitors gather to celebrate.
“It’s the favorite tree when we have tours and when we have parties,” said Fran DeWine, Ohio’s First Lady. “This is the tree everybody loves to come and see,” she added, highlighting the emotional connection many feel towards this unique symbol.
Crafting Through Adversity
What sets The Redemption Tree apart is not just its stunning decorations but the artisans behind them. The ornaments are crafted by women incarcerated at the Ohio Reformatory for Women in Marysville. Each ornament carries a story and a spirit of transformation. Lauren Schultz, one of the contributing artists, expressed how the project provides a meaningful outlet: “It keeps you busy,” she said, showcasing a crocheted ornament she created.
Participating in the ornament-making process has been empowering for Schultz and her fellow inmates. “It’s great to be part of Ohio and the governor’s mansion project,” she stated proudly, reflecting the pride felt among the women involved in this initiative.
Giving Back from Within
For nearly ten years, the women at the reformatory have dedicated their time and talents to producing not only ornaments for The Redemption Tree but also scarves, sweaters, and stuffed animals. These items are then donated to families through local nonprofits, providing a tangible sense of compassion and connection to the community.
Mary Jane Carpenter, a dedicated volunteer who collaborates with the women weekly, highlighted the transformative power of giving. “They’re doing their time, but they want to do something that gives back,” she noted, emphasizing the spirit of community service among the participants.
Creativity Blossoming Behind Bars
Each creation made by the women is crafted from donated materials, turning what could easily be a time of despair into one of creation and hope. “Giving back was something that I needed,” Schultz remarked, underlining the therapeutic and redemptive impact of their efforts. The spirit of giving reflects not just a desire to help others but also a path toward personal redemption.
“Everyone makes bad decisions, but overcoming them and being able to give back to the community that you felt like you took from is a very humbling experience,” she shared. This perspective highlights the profound growth that can emerge even in the most challenging circumstances.
The Heart of The Redemption Tree
The importance of The Redemption Tree lies in its ability to connect the women who created the ornaments with the larger community. Mrs. DeWine stressed how crucial it is to celebrate the desire these women have to give back: “It just shows how much these women want to give back.”
The connections forged through this creative process truly reflect the tree’s name. For those involved, it serves as a lasting reminder of their journey toward healing and generosity. “Redemption is mine, and I’ve done that, and I feel so good about it,” Schultz confidently expressed, revealing the deep sense of fulfillment that accompanies their hard work.
Future Endeavors and Community Support
For those interested in contributing to this remarkable initiative, supplies and monetary support can be directed to Mary Jane Carpenter via email. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to assist the women in their mission to give back.
As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, plans are underway to create a new display at the Ohio governor’s residence, showcasing the artistry of the ornaments from The Redemption Tree. This ongoing project promises to celebrate both the history of the nation and the individual journeys towards redemption and hope.