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Omaha, NE - A forty-foot giant has made its way to the Durham Museum, its new home for the holidays.  The Norskov family of Omaha donated the Colorado Blue Spruce to the museum for its 75th annual tree tradition.  

The family watched as Union Pacific workers chopped the trunk from its base. Neighbors shared sadness, this west Omaha neighborhood grew up with the shelter of the towering tree.  However, the Norskov family keeps a smile on their faces, anxious to share the giant with the whole community.  They know it's outgrown their yard; finally big enough for the perfect Durham Christmas tree.

The custom began in the 1930's when Union Pacific would find the evergreen tree along the train tracks and bring it back to the depot for decorations.  Every year the tradition grows.  

Since the 1990's, one tree is chosen as the centerpiece for the museum and the tree is harvested.   It's a large task, literally, picking a tree isn't easy. The competition is tough, trees must be the right width, height and every branch inbetween must be perfect for decorations.  

Soon the Blue Spruce will be the in the spotlight, thousands of lights and garland will dress the green giant from trunk to top. Mangelsen's will decorate each branch, tinsel will dance it's way around as children meet Santa with the giant hovering overhead.

The tree lighting ceremony is November 23rd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.  The museum will offer  activities for children, a visit from Santa, and of course, a first glance at this year's Durham holiday tree.