In early November, the board of Prospect Hill welcomed Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski, Jr. (“Johnny O”) to join them in saying farewell to the cemetery’s iconic copper beech. The tree, approximately 125 years old, was dying and was subsequently removed later that month by the Ex-Cel Tree Company. As part of the program, Johnny O proclaimed November 6-13, 2020 as “Historic Prospect Hill Cemetery Week” in Baltimore County.

County Executive & Carolyn Knott

Carolyn Parker Knott, President of the Prospect Hill Cemetery board, welcomes Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski, Jr.

Stephen Lafferty

Stephen Lafferty, Baltimore County Chief Sustainability Officer, spoke about the value of trees and green space in Towson.

Will Phipps

Will Philipps, co-owner of Sandtown Furniture Company, which will repurpose the copper beech trunk into custom furniture, spoke of his group’s excitement about being part of the event, as the beech will be the oldest wood his firm has used for its furniture.

John Dierkes

John Dierkes spoke, representing families with loved ones buried at Prospect Hill, remarking that his family chose the cemetery for the beauty of its grounds, among other reasons.