Discover Sierra Leone — The Cotton Tree

Sitting in the heart of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, the Cotton Tree stood as a living monument through centuries of history.  Estimated to be around 400 years old, the history of the Cotton Tree dates back to 1792.  According to legend, the Cotton Tree gained importance when a group of formerly enslaved people landed on the shoreline of Sierra Leone, walked up to the giant tree that sat just above the bay, and held a service of thanksgiving there, gathering to pray and sing hymns of thanks to God for their deliverance to a free land. Over time, the Cotton Tree became intertwined with Sierra Leone’s identity and was featured on banknotes, stamps, and was even visited by Queen Elizabeth II during the country’s independence celebrations in 1961.  As part of Sierra Leone’s identity, it represented unity, continuity, and hope.

On the night of May 24, 2023, a severe storm struck Freetown with torrential rains and high winds. The Cotton Tree was severely damaged and lost nearly all its branches. Only the base of the massive trunk remained standing.

Even though it has been damaged, the Cotton Tree continues to stand, reflecting the resilience of the Sierra Leonean people. Just as the tree grew into a gathering place for community, Sierra Leoneans continue to rebuild and move forward after each adversity.  A civil war, Ebola, devastation from the rainy season, and a global pandemic are just a few recent trials the people of Sierra Leone have overcome.  Despite damage, the tree persists, just as the people of Sierra Leone persist—together, always leaning toward restoration.

In 2021, we launched The Cotton Tree Collection.  It is another way to support The Raining Season as the proceeds directly benefit our children, and t-shirts are still available for purchase. Today, the Cotton Tree continues to mark the center of Freetown and continues to serve as a symbol of freedom in Sierra Leone. Because of the Covering, our children can also experience freedom; freedom in Christ, freedom from the burden of sin, freedom from fear, freedom from poverty, and freedom from hunger.  Your willingness to link arms with us helps us to continue our mission TOGETHER.

Many blessings,

The Raining Season