Charleston, WV - Each year, the state of West Virginia displays two beautifully decorated Christmas trees on the Capitol campus for the holiday season, thanks to generous donations from West Virginia residents. This year, Helen Herring from Elkview donated a tree for the second time, an 18-year-old Frasier Fir, while the Buchanan family from Hansford donated a Blue Spruce in honor of their late daughter, Andrea, who passed away in 2009 at 17 years of age.
The Blue Spruce stands at 40 feet tall while the Frasier Fir is approximately 20 feet tall.
The Frasier Fir, which will be located in the North Plaza of the capitol grounds, was planted by John Armstrong of French Creek Farms as a replacement for a previous tree always dressed with decorations for the holidays. When that tree grew too large, it was donated to the Capitol grounds in 2010. It was always the family’s intention to donate the current Frasier Fir when it also became too large.
“We are honored to have it on display at our state capitol,” said Herring.
The Blue Spruce can be seen on the Lincoln Plaza on the south side of the State Capitol.
The Buchanans planted their tree approximately 25 years ago at their residence in Eastern Kanawha County after Michael, a state employee for more than 36 years and currently a director in the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, received it from the Division of Forestry as part of State Employee Appreciation Week. He planted it on his property with his daughter Andrea and her mother Tracy, who was pregnant with their son, Alex, at the time. The tree has always been known as Andrea’s Tree.
“My family and I are very honored to have Andrea’s tree displayed at the State Capitol for this holiday season,” said Buchanan. “It has been decorated many times over the years, and I’m looking forward to seeing it shine in all its glory. I know Andrea will be looking down and smiling from the heavens!”
Both trees will be on display during the upcoming virtual Joyful Night Celebration, when Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice will ceremonially light the Blue Spruce. The event will be virtual, and more information about Joyful Night will be released at a later date.