Missouri City officials gathered July 25 to cut the ribbon on Freedom Tree Park, the city’s historic site where slaves in the community were informed after the Civil War in 1865 that they were no longer enslaved.
The details
Located on the former Palmer Plantation, the $3.5 million project developed 5 acres of parkland anchored by the 200-year-old historic Freedom Tree, Parks & Recreation Director Donnie Hayes said.
The park is also home to Missouri City artist Anthony Suber's 30-foot sculpture, "Liberation After," which was designed to symbolize community growth and resilience.
Other park features include:
- A playground
- A plaza
- Gathering spaces
- Educational components
- Parking
There are also trails connecting Freedom Tree Park to Community and Troxell parks, Hayes said.
Conceptual design was first contracted in 2020, followed by the groundbreaking for construction in February 2025, Community Impact previously reported.
The funding
The project is funded by the city’s $85.85 million bond approved by voters in November 2021, which included $23.02 million in parks improvements. It’s also funded through a $750,000 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Local Parks Grant, which was awarded in 2022.
What they're saying
"With the opening of Freedom Tree Park, Missouri City celebrates its rich past and looks toward the future, the park stands as a lasting symbol of the city's commitment to preserving its heritage, honoring its history and creating meaningful public spaces that strengthen the community for generations to come," said Daniele Stewart, assistant parks and recreation director.
