Hundreds gather to watch Halifax send off its annual Tree for Boston
HALIFAX — Robert Young and his six-year-old son Jack made a special trip to Halifax City Hall on Friday to bid farewell to a big tree.
They were among about 300 people who gathered at the city’s blustery Grand Parade square for an annual tradition: the official send-off for a huge Christmas tree destined for Boston — a gift meant to show Haligonians’ gratitude for the help Bostonians provided after Halifax was devastated by an explosion 100 years ago.
“When we heard about the tree coming to the parade square, Jack hopped on his scooter and we got over here and made it in time for the big show,” said Young, who conducts historic walking tours of Halifax.
“It’s an important gift because of Boston’s role in responding so quickly to the crisis. (Halifax) had run out of medical supplies. There was a shortage of nurses and doctors. Right away, Boston sent an emergency train through a blizzard to Halifax and contributed all sorts of money and help. It’s vital to appreciate that.”