The oral tradition of the Iroquois tells of a Peacemaker who warned the people that as long as there was violence, there would be fear that would diminish everyone’s sense of safety and peace of mind. There must be a unified effort by humans for peace to prevail. Through logic, reasoning, and spiritual means, the Peacemaker inspired the warriors to bury their weapons and adopt a Path of Peace. The Great Tree of Peace was planted on top of this site to mark a new beginning. The Peacemaker proclaimed that the branches of the white pine would spread out to shelter all who commit themselves to Peace. 

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