A majestic 80-foot Sitka spruce, nicknamed “Spruce Wayne,” is making its way from Alaska to Washington, D.C., in a grand journey spanning 4,000 miles to become the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.
At a Glance
- The 2023 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is an 80-foot Sitka spruce from Alaska’s Tongass National Forest
- Veteran truck drivers John Schank and Fred Austin are transporting the tree on a 4,000-mile journey
- The tree will make 11 stops for public viewing across several states
- This annual tradition, known as “The People’s Tree,” began in 1964
- The tree is expected to arrive in Washington, D.C. on November 20
A Christmas Tradition on Wheels
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, affectionately known as “The People’s Tree,” is embarking on its annual journey to bring holiday cheer to the nation’s capital. This year’s tree, a magnificent 80-foot Sitka spruce from Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, has been entrusted to two seasoned truck drivers for its cross-country trek.
John Schank, 72, and Fred Austin, both veteran drivers with a combined century of experience, are at the helm of this important mission. The tree, playfully nicknamed “Spruce Wayne,” began its journey on a barge from Alaska to Seattle before being loaded onto an 80-foot flatbed truck for the overland portion of its trip.
A Journey Across America
The tree’s 4,000-mile odyssey includes 11 scheduled stops for public viewing, allowing communities across the country to participate in this festive tradition. From Idaho to Utah, Colorado to Nebraska, and onward through Indiana, Ohio, and Maryland, “Spruce Wayne” will make its presence known before reaching its final destination in Washington, D.C.
“The trailer is 80 feet long and the tree just barely fits inside of it … We will take care of the precious cargo we’ve got, and we will drive accordingly,” Schank said.
This journey is not just about transporting a tree; it’s about connecting communities and spreading holiday spirit. At selected stops, the public can leave messages on banners adorning the truck, adding a personal touch to this national symbol.
Experienced Hands at the Wheel
John Schank and Fred Austin are no strangers to the open road. With nearly 50 years of experience each, these drivers have collectively covered approximately 10 million miles. Schank, a former North Branch resident, has been an over-the-road line driver in Alaska for most of his career and previously transported the Capitol Christmas Tree in 2015.
“My favorite part of this trip is the show-and-tell time, not the driving time,” Austin said.
The drivers’ expertise ensures the safe transport of this precious cargo. The tree is securely wrapped and visible through a plexiglass window, with lights that are turned on during stops to showcase its beauty.
A Tradition Rooted in History
The Capitol Christmas Tree tradition began 54 years ago, initiated by Speaker of the House John McCormack. Since 1970, the U.S. Forest Service has provided the tree, with a different national forest chosen each year. This practice not only brings festive cheer to the Capitol but also serves as a campaign to celebrate our nation’s forests.
Each year, the Capitol Christmas Tree embarks on its cross-country road trip to Washington DC, made possible thanks to our truck drivers. pic.twitter.com/DBmS06B9Td
— U.S. Department of Transportation (@USDOT) December 25, 2023
As “Spruce Wayne” makes its way across the country, Americans can follow its progress online via kenworth.com/tree-tracker and on social media. The tree is expected to arrive in Washington, D.C. on November 20, where it will stand tall as a symbol of unity and holiday spirit for all to enjoy.
