Memorial Trees

TREES

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed

Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are mad by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

--Joyce Kilmer

 

On September 19, 2001, the City Council of the City of Slayton held a memorial tree dedication program at Slaytona Beach Aquatic Center.  Originally there were twenty-five trees planted throughout the parking lot area.  In 2007, an additional eleven trees were planted to serve as memorial trees for families and friends.  Over the years families have planted and dedicated special trees for family members at the memorial tree site.  In 2011, five additional trees were added to the site bringing the total number of trees to forty-three.

A large variety of trees are planted at the memorial site near the pool.  The variety includes:  Ash, Birch, Buckeye, Coffee, Flowering Crab, Hackberry, Linden, Maple, and Oak.  Each memorial tree has a dedication plaque located at its base.  Thirty-six of the trees have been purchased as memorials leaving just seven available for purchase.  Available trees include:  one Birch, one Ash, one Linden, two Coffee, and two Buckeyes; and can be purchased as a memorial tree for $130.00 which includes the plaque and signage. 

Take some time to walk amongst the trees and remember the loved ones who are honored there.  Memorial trees are located just east of Slaytona Beach Aquatic Center and west of Bi-Centennial Park ball field #2 in and around the pool parking lot. 

If you are interested in purchasing a memorial tree for a loved one, contact City Hall at 836-8534 for further information.