A Family Legacy Shines Bright: The story Behind the 2024 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The 2024 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree isn’t just a towering symbol of holiday cheer-itS a deeply personal story rooted in family history and childhood memories. This year’s majestic evergreen hails from a private property in Vestal,New York,and carries with it a legacy spanning generations.
From Backyard Jungle Gym to Global icon
For decades, a Norway spruce stood proudly on the Russ family property, becoming an integral part of their lives.It served as a beloved jungle gym for young Liam Russ, creating cherished memories during his formative years. Little did they know,this tree was destined for a far grander role than providing backyard adventures.
The journey began with a simple text message. A friend of Dan Russ, a former security supervisor at Rockefeller Center, sent a picture of the tree to Erik pauze, the head gardener responsible for selecting the iconic Christmas tree for over 30 years. Pauze instantly recognized it’s potential.
“I got a text of a picture from an old buddy of mine,” Pauze explained. “I said, ‘Where’s that?’ and when he told me I said, ‘Wow! I’m pretty close. I’ll be there tomorrow.'”
A Careful Selection and a Respectful Transition
Pauze quickly confirmed the tree’s suitability, noting its perfect shape and remarkable size. he then worked with the Russ family to arrange for its careful removal. The tree, standing next to the family garage, was gently wrapped and cut down using a chainsaw.
It was then carefully lowered onto a flatbed truck for its journey to New York City. Pauze himself rode in the passenger seat, overseeing the tree’s transport over the bridge, through Manhattan, and finally down 49th Street to Rockefeller Plaza.
A family Tradition and a Heartfelt Donation
The Russ family’s decision to donate the tree wasn’t simply about its size or beauty. It was a way to honor the memory of Dan Russ and celebrate their family’s heritage. “It became a perfect tree to be in front of 30 Rockefeller Plaza,” Pauze said. “And it became a tree from a family generational property. So, it’s a good way to remember their family, as well, and that’s one of the reasons they wanted to donate the tree.”
The family participated in the annual tradition of driving a spike into the tree’s trunk before it was secured on its stand. Judy Russ, who grew up in New York City, and her grandson, Liam, were present for the momentous occasion.
Sharing the Spirit of the Season
Liam expressed his excitement for the world to see the tree, a sentiment echoed by his grandmother. “I’m excited that the whole world can see it,” he shared. Judy Russ added, “We’re just happy to share it with everybody.”
This year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is more than just a festive decoration. it’s a symbol of family, remembrance, and the enduring spirit of Christmas.
“Spread joy, spread cheer, love one another,” Judy Russ encouraged.”think of our family,think of my husband,think of us.”
She continued,”I know he would have loved to have been here for this moment. We always talked about it being the [Rockefeller Center] tree. It’s so special that my family’s tree gets to be America’s, if not the world’s, Christmas tree.”
As you gaze upon the twinkling lights of this magnificent tree, remember the story it carries-a story of a family’s love, a legacy of generations, and the joy of sharing a little bit of magic with the world.
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