Dec 20, 2023 - For decades, a secret tree in Central Park has allowed parents of departed pets to celebrate the memory of their beloved animals with personalized ornaments.
Hundreds of ornaments featuring photos and messages annually adorn this tree; the existence of which has been traced back to 1986.
The tree is located in the Ramble - the densely wooded area between 73rd and 78th Streets. Decorations from the prior years go up around Thanksgiving and new ones are added by visitors until Three Kings Day (January 6th), which is when the decorations are removed for the season.
The “keeping of the tree” is done by an organically formed group which came into existence over the years.
In general, displays and decorations are not allowed in Central Park, so it's best that the location of the tree remains as low-key as possible to avoid mass visitation and potentially a loss of this privilege and the positive impact it's had on so many people.
Read the original article here.