The City of Lexington has approved a request from the Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (MSSDAR) to install a DAR America 250! Patriot Marker in the public park surrounding the Madonna of the Trail monument.

The park, located at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Missouri Route 224, is home to the historic Madonna of the Trail sculpture, which is owned and maintained by MSSDAR.

The Madonna of the Trail is part of a series of 12 identical monuments honoring the spirit of pioneer women in the United States. The monuments were commissioned in the late 1920s by the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) under the leadership of President Grace Lincoln Hall Brosseau and installed in the 12 states along the National Old Trails Road, extending from Cumberland, Maryland, to Upland, California.

The “America 250! Patriot Marker” will be a bronze, post-mounted plaque placed near an existing marker in a location that preserves accessibility, visibility, and the overall character of the site. The marker honors the men and women who achieved American independence during the Revolutionary War (1775–1783) and recognizes the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

“Lexington is one of 12 Madonna of the Trail statues found across the United States and the only one in Missouri,” said Mayor Tom Hughes. “We are proud of our heritage and are pleased to work with MSSDAR on the America 250! Patriot Marker. We look forward to the dedication ceremony.”

“We are grateful to the City of Lexington for its support and cooperation,” said Lisa Parks, State Regent of MSSDAR. “This marker will enhance an already significant historic site while providing an opportunity for education and reflection as our nation approaches its semi- quincentennial.”

MSSDAR will fund all costs associated with the marker’s purchase, installation, and ongoing maintenance. A public dedication ceremony is tentatively planned for May 2026.