Downers Grove Magazine | Publisher's Profile
A Time to Celebrate
The Downers Grove Tree Lighting Ceremony tradition continues PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE
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ver wonder how that tree just magically appears in the fountain by the Main Street Train Station? Anne Healy, Publisher, had the opportunity to speak with Elizabeth Chalberg, President of the Downers Grove Historical Society, as well as Douglas Kozlowski, Communications Director of the Village of Downers Grove, regarding the history of this longtime event in Downers Grove and the process to make the tradition come to life every year.
How did the tradition begin and how does it continue today? Elizabeth: According to historical articles in The Downers Grove Reporter, the tradition started in 1918. The goal was to show appreciation for the many from the village who fought in the First World War. A community tree was proposed. 103 years later, this tradition continues. Doug: For many years the event has been held the day after Thanksgiving. In keeping with this tradition the 2021 Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony will be on Friday, November 26 at the Main Street Train Station.
How is the tree transported? Elizabeth: Originally, a tree was put up at the Congregational Church on Curtiss Street across from the library so all could view it. Walter Scott Bryan, the caretaker of the Marshall Field Estate, donated an evergreen tree worth about $30.00 the first year. The large tree was placed on two hayracks and carefully set in place. It was decided later that future trees would be erected by the train station as moving a tree was quite a feat. Doug: Each year a tree is selected from a list comprised of local residents interested in donating a tree from their property. The Village Forester looks for a tree that is about 30 feet tall with a full canopy. While being cut the tree is secured and suspended in the air by a large crane so that it does not fall to the ground. It is then gently placed on flatbed trailer for a ride through town. The tree is typically cut on a Friday so that it can be placed at the Main Street Station bright and early Saturday morning.
How is the tree decorated? Elizabeth: When the tradition first launched, ornaments had to 20
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be collected from the community. A committee led by Mrs. Minnie Prince requested families to provide some durable ornaments. The ornaments would be saved and used in the future. The tree was lit by 300 10-candle-power bulbs. Doug: The tree is festooned with 10,000 lights (100 strands of 100 lights each) and hundreds of handmade ornaments from residents of all ages.
How many would gather for the tradition? Elizabeth: During the days before Christmas, programs were planned around the tree and on Christmas night more than 1,000 people came to see singing songs as the bells of all the churches and schools rang out.
What entertainment will be provide at this year’s ceremony? Doug: Performances by the Trojan Marching Band and the Downers Grove Choral Society will definitely add to the festive mood. And Santa Clause will be taking time out from his otherwise busy schedule to help light the tree. ■
