Christmas tree delivered to Monument Square
Mayor Patrick Madden announced the delivery of Troy’s 2020 Christmas Tree to Monument Square in historic downtown Troy. Installed on Nov. 25, the tree will be on display as “Kelly’s Tree” throughout the holiday season, including during the 2020 Troy Victorian Stroll Season ( Dec. 6 – 20).
The tree, a 50-foot Colorado Blue Spruce, was donated by the McCann family in memory of their daughter Kellyanne (Kelly) who passed away in January 1991. Planted by the family at their home in Troy’s Hillsview Heights neighborhood on June 13, 1968, on Kelly’s first birthday, the tree was decorated every year as part of their Christmas traditions until it grew too large.
“It was her favorite time of the year. Troy will be lit up this year,” Kelly’s mom, Lynn, remarked.
Kelly worked in childcare and at the Troy Y.W.C.A., and was remembered for her compassion and dedication to children, especially during the holiday season. The family recalls Kelly saving money throughout the year to purchase presents for local kids, and encourage the public to make a toy donation this December to charities that help less fortunate families.
“If there’s anybody out there that might be able to donate a toy for toys for tots to go along with the tree down in the city, that would be great,” Kelly’s dad, Bob, said.
“She’ll bring lots of smiles to children’s faces in the downtown Troy area. And we’re just glad that we have the opportunity to do this donation and bring joy to the city of Troy,” Kelly’s sister, Kathleen, added.
“Regardless of our respective faiths, traditions, or backgrounds, the holidays are a time for giving thanks and to celebrate family. This year’s tree embodies the spirit of the holiday season and individuals like Kellyann McCann who gave back to their community. Thank you to Robert, Lynn, Kimberly, Kristy, Kathleen, and the entire extended McCann family for their generous donation of this year’s beautiful Christmas Tree. Like their daughter Kelly, this tree will bring joy to children across Troy this winter, and we’re honored to display her tree in [the] community she loved,” Madden stated.
Madden also extends a special thank you to Constable Tree Service, who donated their time and equipment to cut, prepare, and install this year’s tree and the City of Troy’s Department of Public Works staff involved with delivering the tree safely to Monument Square.
Located at the intersection of River Street and 2nd Street, residents and visitors can view this year’s tree throughout the month of December when visiting downtown Troy to support local businesses and restaurants, including during the 2020 Victorian Stroll Season presented by the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce.