Posted on 11/17/2005 7:16:34 PM PST by NewHampshireDuo
The blue spruce tree cost 10 cents and was no bigger than Judy MacConnell's hand when it arrived at her family's home in Falmouth 56 years ago.
When workers arrived to bring it to Portland's Monument Square on Wednesday, the tree was a towering 65 feet tall and weighed 11,400 pounds.
MacConnell said, "It's the largest one they have had in Portland" to stand through the holidays.
Her parents wanted the tree to stand some day in Monument Square. Blanche Hincks Capelluti and Joseph A. Capelluti talked about the possibility many times over the years, MacConnell said. Her mother died in April and her father died on Nov. 1.
Before her father died, MacConnell called the city of Portland and got the tree added to its list of candidates for this year. She got the call back on Nov. 8.
"They had no idea of the story of the family that went with it," MacConnell said. "It is so heartwarming to know that (my parents') wish was fulfilled."
MacConnell and her brother Jody Capelluti were there on Wednesday as police escorted the tree on its way down Congress Street.
"There is sadness and joy," MacConnell said. "Both of our parents are gone, but we all take joy in knowing that so many families and children are going to enjoy this gift."
The tree will be lit on Nov. 25, the day after Thanksgiving.
"Thanksgiving is next...after Christmas is dead and buried."
Thanksgiving is long gone. You would be surprised as to how many people when asked, think the Pilgrims were giving thanks to the indians!
Ok one more!
Holiday who's name can not be mentioned.
My aunt reminded me of that this morning that Labor Day, President's Day, etc are all holidays and she doesn't buy gifts during any of them.
Bears repeating. Ask them which holiday do they mean.
Yes, it is amazing the libs are so scared of Christmans that they can not even mention its name. Ironicly, Harry Potterish.
I thoroughly enjoyed your heart-warming story concerning the blue spruce tree being put up in Monument Square. I am a bit puzzled as to what the tree was for. Is there something significant that happens after Thanksgiving? I read the story three times, but there is nothing in the story to explain the significance of the tree. Could someone please fill me in.....
Good note. Let us know what the response is (if you get one).
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