FARMINGTON — Community members gathered in the early morning July 31 for the dedication of a Rotary Peace Pole at Meetinghouse Park in Farmington, a ceremony celebrating the values of service, peace and community that define Rotary International.

The event, organized by the Rotary Club of Farmington, began at 7 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and featured remarks from local officials and Rotary leaders. The Peace Pole, inscribed in English, Canadian French, Wabanaki and Spanish, now stands as a symbol of global unity and hope.

“A Peace Pole is an internationally recognized symbol of the hopes and dreams of the entire human family, standing vigil in silent prayer for peace on Earth,” said Susan A. Pratt, current president of the Farmington Rotary Club and Rotary District 7790 governor for 2025-26. “It is meant to inspire unity and is part of Rotary’s focus on peacebuilding and conflict prevention.”

Pratt explained that this project began under the leadership of former club president Kym Recco and reflects the club’s century-long commitment to service. “Peace is larger than all of us,” Pratt said. “The pathway to peace must begin with each of you and each of us.”

Farmington Select Board Chair Matthew Smith reflected on his lifelong connection to Rotary through his grandfather. “One of the big things it taught me at a young age was giving back to the community,” Smith said. “It makes me proud to be here this morning.”

Farmington Police Chief Kenneth Charles shared personal reflections on the impact of Rotary’s mission. “It is about giving back to the community,” he said, adding that the 100th anniversary of the Farmington Rotary highlights the club’s enduring legacy.

Sen. Russell Black (R-Franklin) also addressed the crowd, recognizing the Rotary’s role in honoring local heroes and meeting community needs. “Farmington Rotary rolls up their sleeves and goes to work,” he said. “You recognize the folks in our community who go the extra mile, and you don’t forget about our first responders.”

Peace Poles have been installed in more than 200,000 locations across 180 countries as part of a global movement that began with Masahisa Goi of Japan after World War II. The Farmington pole joins that legacy as a permanent reminder to “May Peace Prevail on Earth,” Pratt said.