Sustainable Forestry Webinar: Remembering the Rouse Simmons and Crew

Loaded down heavily with trees harvested from Manistee, Michigan, Chicago’s beloved “Christmas Tree Ship” – the Rouse Simmons – sunk off the shore of Lake Michigan near Two Rivers, Wisconsin, on November 22, 1912. She was headed for the Clark Street Bridge on the Chicago River in The Loop. For years, Captain Herman E. Schuenemann and his crew docked the Rouse Simmons on the south end of the bridge and sold Christmas trees from the ship to Chicagoans. Schuenemann became widely known for his generosity in giving many of the trees away to Chicago families that could not afford a Christmas tree. On the first weekend in December each year, the U.S. Coast Guard honors Captain Schuenemann and his crew by coordinating the distribution of Christmas trees to families in need from Navy Pier. This virtual program is in support of our Federal partners. USDA Forest Service specialists will provide information to the public about the importance of tree harvesting for the environment. Find out why tree harvesting is as essential to forest health as it is to spreading joy and hope during this magical time of year. A panel discussion will celebrate the legacy of the historic Christmas Tree Ship, focusing on renewable resources and sustainable forestry and the importance of tree harvesting. TO REGISTER: Call 815-423-6370 or email SM.FS.Midewin_RSVP@usda.gov.