Legend has it that the first decorated Christmas tree in America was set up right here in Windsor Locks! When you visit the Noden-Reed Museum on West Street, take a walk up the road behind the museum and take a look at the evergreen grove over to the left, where a plaque reading "SITE OF THE FIRST DECORATED CHRISTMAS TREE IN NEW ENGLAND 1777" commemorates the event. The Christmas tree was set up by a Hessian soldier named Hendrick Roddemore, who was captured at the battle of Bennington in August 1777 and sent to Windsor Locks (then called Pine Meadow) to work for Samual Denslow, a farmer. During the winter of 1777, Roddemore lived in a cabin at the site where the stone has been placed and almost certainly would have set up his tree there in the German Christmas tradition
While there is no proof that the Windsor Locks Christmas tree was the first in America, it is certainly a strong possibility since the presence of Hendrick Roddemore is documented and the Hessians did introduce the popular custom to our country! Whether or not you believe the legend, it's a wonderful story and, after all, there is no proof that it didn't happen right here in Windsor Locks!
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