Essex Community Tree Lights Up the Night
By Devin Crum (East County Times, 12/2017)
Community leaders, elected officials and residents of Essex and Middle River gathered Saturday, Dec. 9, for what has become a grand event in recent years – the lighting of the community tree at the Heritage Society of Essex and Middle River in Essex.
Feelings of warmth and community were evident as the tree was lit even though the weather was snowy and cold. And many in attendance agreed that the tree looked even more beautiful with its dusting of snow.
Sam Weaver, owner of Weaver’s Marine Service, again donated this year’s tree, a 27-foot spruce which is three feet taller than last year’s.
Weaver, Cliff O’Connell of Cliff’s Hi-Tech and Cliff’s Direct Effect, and workers from Baltimore County combined their efforts to deliver and install the tree at the Heritage Society museum at 516 Eastern Blvd. And O’Connell, Back River Restoration Committee volunteers and others all helped to decorate the giant tree.
Joining the crowd on behalf of Governor Larry Hogan was Maryland’s deputy secretary of state and Essex resident, Luis Borunda, who remarked that the Heritage Society’s tree lighting is an excellent community tradition that helps – along with the snow – to put all into the holiday spirit.
Also in attendance were State Delegates Robin Grammer, Bob Long and Ric Metzgar and County Councilman Todd Crandell – all of whom represent Essex – as well as Del. Pat McDonough, who is running for Baltimore County Executive.
Crandell noted his awe at the size and beauty of the tree, along with the size and energy of the crowd gathered. He said although he is from Dundalk, “Essex is doing it better” when it comes to community Christmas trees.
Guests were also treated to cookies, tours and visits with Santa.
Click on photos above to enlarge.
These photos and clippings come from the Heritage Society Baumgartner Archives and other sources, scanned by member Rita Gaunt with additional research and photos by archivist Scott Huffines.
This print archive captures a historical snapshot of life in Essex and Middle River, Maryland. The archive contains nearly 300 categorical binders documenting our community activities with articles, pamphlets, and photographs from 1969 through the 1980s. The Heritage Society has been scanning the collection to our website to share with our extended community.
As we continue to build new collections, we are seeking new materials such as photographs and ephemera that pertain to the community and business history of Essex and Middle River. Please contact essexmuseum@gmail.com if you have historical memories or items to donate or would like to become a member.
Read more about the Heritage Society Baumgartner Archives.