108 years later, N.S. keeps tradition alive with annual Christmas tree for Boston
Nova Scotia is keeping its word and delivering a “majestic white spruce” Christmas tree to Boston.
Nova Scotia is keeping its word and delivering a “majestic white spruce” Christmas tree to Boston, continuing a tradition that honours the American city’s crucial aid following the devastating Halifax explosion a century ago.
The Halifax Explosion, the largest man-made explosion at the time, occurred on the morning of December 6, 1917, when a French cargo ship collided with a Norwegian vessel loaded with explosives.
At least 1,782 people were killed in Halifax and Dartmouth from the blast, subsequent fires, and collapsed buildings, while another 9,000 were injured.
The City of Boston responded with urgency, dispatching a train with supplies and emergency personnel within 24 hours, even facing a brutal storm.
Their concern and generosity has not been forgotten.
“Nova Scotia and Boston maintain strong ties through family, business and shared history,” said the province’s Natural Resources Minister Kim Masland.
“This annual gift celebrates our enduring friendship, shows our gratitude and connects our communities across generations and borders.”
Joseph Slaunwhite from Lunenburg County first donated a tree to Boston the following year in 1918.
The annual tradition was revived in 1971 and has continued uninterrupted since then.
This year’s tree marks the 54th consecutive year of this poignant exchange and coincides with the 108th anniversary of the Halifax Explosion.
The annual Christmas tree gift serves as a lasting symbol of the enduring friendship and gratitude between Nova Scotia and Boston.
This year’s 13.7-metre (45-foot) tree was nominated by former owners Ronald and Claire Feener, who previously owned the property where it was located, with the support of the current residents.
It was cut earlier this month during a public event in Martins Brook, which included a smudging ceremony led by Holly Meuse from L’sitkuk First Nation in Bear River.
“We planted this tree in our front yard over 40 years ago. We have fond memories of our family enjoying it decorated for Christmas, and we often spoke about how it would be a great tree for Boston,” said the Feener family in a statement.
“To have this tree selected this year is a dream come true and an absolute honour to help keep this important tradition alive.”
The City of Boston’s 84th annual tree-lighting ceremony will take place on Dec. 4 in Boston Common.