The Missouri Governor’s Mansion Christmas tree has arrived in Jefferson City in time to ring in the holiday season.
Holly Dentner, with the Missouri Department of Conservation, said the tree is a 40-foot Norway Spruce. It was donated by Daryl and Sherry Richardson of Boone County.
“Our family from Boone County have donated their second tree in a row this year,” said Dentner. “They had a beautiful line of giant spruces along their property. They’re getting too big. We took one last year to open up space for other trees and she generously offered a second one for this year.”
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The tree was installed Monday morning by the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Office of Administration.
“I think it’s a really special tradition because these are trees that are going to have to come down soon anyway,” she explained. “Now, a family donates them. They’re being put on the Governor’s Mansion lawn where thousands of people will see how beautiful they are and how lovely they are for the holidays. I just can’t think of a better way to make use of a tree that, you know, would otherwise end up in the chipper somewhere.”
It’s something that fills Sherry Richardson with pride as it holds a special place in her heart this year.
“So, this is, this tree is 31-years-old,” Richardson said. “It’s the 31st tree on the lawn. It’s our 31st wedding anniversary on December 31st.”
The annual tree lighting ceremony will be this Friday evening at 5:30 p.m. and will be the last one for Gov. Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson as Missouri’s first family.
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