The community Christmas tree is more than a festive decoration. It is a powerful symbol that brings together residents of all ages to celebrate the holiday season with warmth, unity, and a festive spirit. The tree fosters a spirit of giving, encourages kindness, strengthens community bonds, and stands as a reminder of the joy that the holiday season can bring.
Rooted in centuries-old customs, the tree has evolved to represent not only the spirit of Christmas but also the values of togetherness and goodwill within a community. Each year, as towns and neighborhoods gather to light the community Christmas tree, they participate in a celebration that bridges cultural, social, and generational divides.
The community Christmas tree serves as a focal point for seasonal celebrations. It often marks the start of the holiday season, drawing crowds for lighting ceremonies. These events foster a sense of belonging and joy, inviting people of all backgrounds to come together in the spirit of peace and celebration. In this way, the tree becomes a unifying landmark, reflecting the collective spirit of a community.
Moreover, the tree often serves as a centerpiece for giving and charitable acts. Many communities use the occasion to collect toys, food, or donations for families in need. In this way, the community Christmas tree becomes a beacon of generosity and compassion, encouraging acts of kindness and reminding people of the deeper values that the holiday season embodies.
The Christmas tree tradition began in Germany during the 16th century, where devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Over time, this tradition spread globally, and public tree displays became common, especially in town centers and communal spaces. The first community Christmas trees appeared in the early 20th century, with one of the most famous being the annual tree in Rockefeller Center, New York City, which has become a globally recognized symbol of the season.
Closer to home, research shows, and was chronicled by historian G. Wayne Smith, the first community Christmas tree at the Greene County Courthouse was erected in 1916. A towering 50-foot spruce donated by John Hoge. The event was sponsored by the Federation of Women’s Club and the Waynesburg Board of Trade. The County Commissioners purchased the lights, and the local power company paid to run them for a week.
In the early years (1927-1950), the holiday tradition was continued with the help of Equitable gas and other gas and water companies. In the early 60’s, the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge took over the project with continued help from local gas companies and the Waynesburg Volunteer Fire Department.
Today, locating/selecting, transporting, installing, and decorating the holiday tree is a combined process between the Waynesburg Moose and the Waynesburg and Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Departments… spearheaded by Mike Harmon, John Meter (Waynesburg Moose), and JoAnne Marshall (Waynesburg and Franklin Township VFD Auxiliary).
This year, the county Christmas tree “countdown to lighting” will begin at 6:00 p.m. during the annual Christmas on High Street celebration that takes place on November 29 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the courthouse in downtown Waynesburg.
The event usually attracts hundreds of community members who gather to witness the symbolic beginning of the holiday season. Most trees selected for this event are massive evergreens that reach at least 25 feet in height. Carefully selected for its shape and size, the tree is usually transported to the courthouse in late November.
The community Christmas tree will remain lit throughout the holiday season, acting as a symbol of hope and celebration. Residents are encouraged to visit the tree, take photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Many families have made it a tradition to visit the tree each year, making it an enduring part of the town’s holiday cultural fabric.
