A Festive Journey Begins: Nevada’s Silver Belle Heads to the Nation’s Capital
At the heart of the Nevada Air National Guard Base in Reno, a 53-foot red fir named Silver Belle stands ready for her significant voyage. Adorned with lights and decorations, this majestic tree is prepared to undertake a cross-country journey that will bring a touch of Nevada’s natural beauty to Washington, D.C.
Silver Belle hails from the Carson Ranger District and holds the distinction of being the first Capitol Christmas Tree sourced from Nevada. Harvested from Mt. Rose on October 24, the 48-year-old tree boasts an almost perfect shape, symbolizing a unique gift to the nation’s capital.
“This red fir named Silver Belle from Nevada is a symbol of our gift to the nation’s capital, and the People’s Tree coming from Nevada is probably one of the best experiences I’ve had in my whole career,” remarked Duncan Leao, project lead for the Forest Service.
Decorated with over 10,000 ornaments crafted by Nevadans, Silver Belle’s adornments reflect contributions from community groups, schools, and Nevada tribes. Her journey spans about 3,700 miles, making stops in nine states, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Maryland. Silver Belle travels on a specially-designed 100-foot truck-trailer equipped with protective walls, viewing windows, and a public banner inviting signatures.
To ensure the tree’s freshness throughout the journey, an 80-gallon bladder bag is affixed to her base, sealed with wax and ratchet straps, and regularly watered. “We have an 80-gallon bladder bag attached to the base of the tree, and we use wax to seal that on, along with ratchet straps,” explained Leao.
Before reaching Washington, D.C., Silver Belle will grace several Nevada communities, including a special appearance in the Nevada Day Parade in Carson City. Once she arrives in the nation’s capital, Silver Belle will be prominently displayed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season.
