A Message of Peace Takes Root in Newark’s Elliot Park

A new addition to Elliot Park carries a simple message with a meaningful invitation: May Peace Prevail on Earth.

Newark Rotary Club recently installed a Peace Pole in the park next to Dunkin’ Donuts on East Union Street. The hope is that its presence will encourage people to pause and consider how their thoughts, words and actions can bring more peace, unity and connection into everyday life.

The community is invited to celebrate the project at a Peace Pole dedication on Sunday, November 8, at 2 p.m. in Elliot Park.

Peace can feel like a big idea, especially when we think about everything happening around the world. But it also has a place right here in Newark, in how we speak to our neighbors, welcome someone new, work through disagreements and show up for one another. The Peace Pole offers a reminder that each of us has a part in that.

That spirit of connection helped bring this project to life. Inspired by Newark Rotary, the effort received support from the Village of Newark, Newark Central School District, First United Methodist Church, Newark Garden Club, Together in Christ and the Bahá’í community.

Local businesses and volunteers also contributed materials, equipment and time. Special thanks go to Secor Lumber in Newark and manager Billy McGowan for donating the 4-by-4-inch, 12-foot pole and concrete; Q’s Power Equipment and owner Alex Quku for digging the post hole; and the Newark Garden Club for the garden planting surrounding the pole.

Together, their contributions have created a place to reflect on a message that belongs to everyone.

Please join Newark Rotary and its community partners on November 8, 2026 to dedicate the Peace Pole and celebrate the connections that made it possible.