CAMBRIDGE, MD — In a time-honored tradition that has become a staple in Dorchester County, volunteers gathered once again in downtown Cambridge to assemble the iconic Crab Basket Christmas Tree. This cherished event, now in its 10th year, stands as a testament to the community's rich maritime heritage.
Standing tall at 22 feet, the unique Christmas tree is a collaborative effort that involves strategically stacking 200 crab baskets generously donated by J.M. Clayton's Seafood Company. The baskets, symbolic of the region's strong ties to watermen and the traditional practices of fishing and crabbing, form the structural core of the festive creation.
Enhancing the visual spectacle are energy-efficient LED lights that adorn the tree, casting a vibrant glow over downtown Cambridge throughout the holiday season. Adding an eco-friendly touch, recycled buoys sourced from the Chesapeake Bay contribute to the tree's overall charm.
Brandon Hesson, Assistant City Manager of Cambridge, shared insights into the origins of this maritime-themed tradition. "We really gravitated towards watermen and fishing and crabbing, and so these baskets felt like something we could latch onto. So yeah, we started it then, and it's really a promotional effort for downtown Cambridge, but it's really nice that it also speaks to the heritage of watermen and our proximity to the Choptank as well."
The altruistic efforts of the community were further exemplified by J.M. Clayton's Seafood Company, which donated the crab baskets for the tenth consecutive year. These baskets, integral to the tree's design, will be returned by the end of the winter season, maintaining the cycle of community support.
Bay Country Communications played a crucial role in the tree's assembly by lending their bucket truck, ensuring the safe and precise placement of each basket.
Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the festive display as the Crab Basket Christmas Tree will be a centerpiece in downtown Cambridge until the end of January. This annual tradition not only brings holiday cheer to the community but also pays homage to the enduring legacy of the watermen who have shaped Dorchester County's identity for generations.