Photo by John Herper

The first memorial tree was planted at the suggestion of Mrs. Harry Blood, President of the Bedford Garden Club in 1937. The tree was dedicated in 1947 as a living memorial to the community’s men and women who served in the armed forces. Over the years, the Bedford Garden Club has conscientiously cared for the tree and its replacements first in front of the Bedford Town Hall, and currently in front of the Bedford Presbyterian Church at the intersection of Bedford Center Road and Church Road. Since 2005, BGC member John Herper has maintained the tree and trimmed it with clear lights for the holiday season.  It is illuminated from early December through early January.

Bedford Garden Club volunteers John Herper and Kathy Nelson, along with pup Archie, light the fir tree in honor of our service men and women. Photo by Jeanene Procopis

Bedford Garden Club members John Herper and Kathy Nelson trim the Bedford Town Memorial tree for the holidays.