Merritt Trace Elementary School
Through the Years
M. R. Trace Dedication / Memorial Tree
This page commemorates the life of the M.R. Trace Memorial Tree. This Blue Spruce Pine was the first tree planted by students during the 1928 dedication ceremonies for the original school building. It stood majestically at the North end of the historic building site for 83 years. Sadly, to make room for the new Lower Grade Wing, the tree was removed in 2011.
A replacement Chinese Hackberry tree was planted near the site of the original tree upon completion of the new LGW building in 2012.
Below are a few selected photographs of the historic M.R. Trace Memorial Tree through its life.
Tree Planting in March 1928
The same tree in 1960 – See upper left corner of photo
© Copyright 2010-2011 Alfred Syvertsen -by permission
The same tree in 1968 – See upper left corner of photo
© Copyright 2010-2011 Alfred Syvertsen -by permission
The same tree in 2011, days before removal
© Copyright 2011 James R. Hubert
New M. R. Trace Memorial Tree -- Planted 2012
© Copyright 2012 Leonard Johnson
Photo #1 = Tree Planting in 1928
Photo #2 = 1960
Photo #3 = 1968
Photo #4 = 2011 Before removal
Photo #5 = 2012 New Memorial Tree