For the past 90 years, students have readied their voices and gathered on a 35-foot tall structure to be part of the oldest singing Christmas tree tradition in the United States.
The Belhaven Singing Christmas Tree is the first and oldest of its kind. Since its creation in 1933, the tree frame has grown taller, candles were exchanged for LED lights, voices and music were amplified and more singers were added each year.
On December, the 35-foot tall wood and metal tree structure holds over 100 men and women. The LED lights change colors in various patterns and sequences according to the character of each Christmas carol, creating a visual spectacle for listeners.
Mignonne Caldwell, the originator of Belhaven’s tree and music professor, came up with the idea as a way to give back to the surrounding community. Caldwell recruited college engineer Mr. C. V. McLain to construct the first wooden tree frame for the choir to stand on. Caldwell’s concert idea became a reality and debuted to the public in December 1933. After the success of the first performance, it became a yearly tradition.
According to belhaven.edu. Source of photos: internet
