Boy Scout Troop 174 Continues Tree Tradition

Since the early 1980s Christmas tree sales have helped local scouts enjoy the outdoors. 

Once again this year members of Boy Scout Troop 174 are selling Balsam Firs in front of the old scout hall and meeting house at First Church of Christ on Hopmeadow Street every evening and weekend days from now until Christmas. (or until they're sold out). 

"It's a great fundraiser," said Assistant Scoutmaster Don Eaton. "It covers the expenses for the troop." 

Specifically scouts and family members get the chance to work at the sale and earn an hourly wage that's placed into an escrow account. Scouts are then able to use those funds to pay for things like scout camps, trips or even equipment, as long as it's for outdoor activities. 

"It's a nice incentive," Eaton said.

Eaton said Troop 176 began selling trees in front of the old scout hall and meetinghouse at First Church of Christ in 1983. When it merged with Troop 174 in the early 2000s, the tradition continued. 

This year the troop purchased some 429 Balsam Firs from Novia Scotia. About half have been sold. Prices start at $30 and range up to $70. 

Sale hours are 6 to 8 p.m. during the week, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. The location is across from the Fitzgerald's Plaza near the intersection of Route 10 and West Street.