Portland's Most Recognized Tree

Some would say it's not a tree at all. It doesn't have roots that tap the ground. It doesn't have boughs that sway in our strong Northeast'r winds. It doesn't have leaves that greet each new May and depart with the chills of autumn. It's but strings of lights that announce the holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Years.

Erected on the roof of the B&M Baked Bean factory, lights strung to resemble a stylized tree with a glowing star atop, remind all those traveling Route 295 North that the holiday season has arrived. One can hear many voices exclaiming, "The bean factory tree is lit!" And so the holidays have"officially" begun in this seaside city on Casco Bay.

I can't find any official record of exactly when the tree was erected, but it's been glowing since I arrived in Portland twenty-seven years ago. If a reader knows, please share your information.

As the pace of celebration accelerates, let the bean factory tree bring a glow to your life. Enjoy it from one of Portland's viewing sites, or slow down and "honk" good cheer as you travel north on 295. Our most recognized tree is worthy of acknowledgement and the employees of B&M, baking our Saturday night beans, will like hearing from you.

HONK FOR THE BEAN TREE!