BRATTLEBORO — Silver Maple (c. 1900–2022), of 945 Putney Rd. in Brattleboro, one of the last great trees that used to line Putney Road, standing quiet watch over the north side of town.
Originally planted by the owners of the beautiful home that remains standing beneath its canopy, it grew with the family and their changes, coming full circle to once again watch over youngsters during times of growth and change.
A local Witness Tree, guarding the intersection of Putney and Black Mountain roads, the tree and the town have grown up together - watching each others' struggles and joys, pains and celebrations, contractions and expansions.
It grew so well in Brattleboro's rich Connecticut River soil that it became a state champion of its species, bringing pilgrims to photograph it as well as gather its fallen leaves.
This magnificent tree has been in the later stages of its life for a couple of decades, and it is with the deepest reverence and sadness that we will have to let it go and find its rest.
Our community will miss its silhouette, shade, and shelter but will hold its memory dear.
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A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19 so that our community may stand together under its branches one last time.
Please join us from 10 to 11 a.m. at 945 Putney Rd., Brattleboro, to celebrate the life and history of our state champion silver maple tree. We invite you to come gather under its branches for stories and refreshments, rain or shine.