The Christmas tree that graces Boston Common each year is a gift from the citizens of Halifax, Nova Scotia, to thank the citizens of Boston for their response to the Halifax Explosion. On December 6, 1917, a munition ship collided with another vessel in the harbor in what remains the world's largest man-made accidental explosion. 2,000 people were killed, and 9,000 injured by debris, falling buildings, and fire. To make matters worse, a record-breaking blizzard dropped 16 inches of snow on the devastated city the next day.
Boston quickly engaged in extensive relief efforts, organizing doctors, nurses and medical supplies and raised significant amounts of money and goods for the relief of the beleagured city. Boston military personnel searched for survivors, and helped to resettle victims. The tree, which must be 40-50 feet in height, has been donated by Nova Scotians each year since 1972.
[Thanks to reader Janey for the tip about this Christmas tree, connected to a historical event I had never heard of!]
No comments:
Post a Comment