Boston Tree Cutting Ceremony

Nova Scotia continued its annual tradition of thanking the people of Boston for their help during the aftermath of the Halifax Explosion.

Every year since 1971, a Christmas tree is chosen to be sent to Boston. This year's tree is a 14-metre white spruce and belongs to Craig and Marina Cook. It was cut at a ceremony on their property in Clementsvale, Annapolis Co., today, Nov. 17.

"It gives us great pleasure to annually thank the people of Boston through this special tradition," said David Morse, Minister of Natural Resources. "Sending them this tree each year is just a small token of appreciation for their generous support during such a devastating time."

On Dec. 6, 1917, two ships, one carrying munitions, collided in Halifax Harbour resulting in an explosion that destroyed part of Halifax. The explosion killed almost 2,000 people and injured thousands more. Relief first arrived via train from Boston with doctors, nurses and supplies. They relieved local workers and set up temporary hospitals and aid stations. In Boston, there were community relief drives in support of those affected in Halifax.

"We feel honoured to have a tree chosen from our property to be sent to Boson this year," said Mr. Cook. "It's a privilege for us to be able to say thank you for the help they provided during the Halifax Explosion."

The Boston Christmas tree usually comes from a private landowner and is selected by the Department of Natural Resources. The chosen tree must be balsam fir, white spruce or red spruce, 12 to 16 metres in height, healthy with good colour, thick branches, symmetrical and easy to access.

The process, from finding the tree to its arrival at the Boston Common, is a joint effort. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal will provide the staff and equipment to load and deliver the tree to Boston.

The tree will serve as the focal point for the annual tree-lighting ceremony at the Boston Common on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. For the second year in a row, Nova Scotia Come to life will be the title sponsor of this ceremony, ensuring Nova Scotia is well-represented.