Christmas in Boston

It is a little known fact that the people are so polite, so nice in Minnesota that they have earned the title, "Minnesota Nice." Their politeness and willingness to go out of their way for others isn't isolated in practice toward tourists either, even though the more industrious Minnesotans have created t-shirts, mugs, key chains, etc. with the slogan on it.

Minnesota Nice is really just common courtesies in every day life extended to anyone you might happen to meet without expecting anything in return. While this kind way of living has been lost in many other parts of the U.S., Minnesota has managed to retain it. It really is remarkable.

But, as it turns out, Minnesota is not the only state in the union that knows a thing or two about this. On December 6, 1917 a massive explosion rocked the City of Halifax in Nova Scotia, destroying 1600 homes, killing close to 2000 people and injuring hundreds. Within hours, help came from across the border, a most unlikely place. The people of Boston, upon hearing the devastating news, were on the scene to lend a hand. A relief train with food, water, medical supplies, and workers to distribute them was dispatched, arriving on December 8 only slowed by a massive snow storm.

Food and water were distributed, and medical workers relieved the Nova Scotia team, many of whom had been on duty since the explosion. Bostonians continued helping throughout the rebuilding process, forming an enduring bond between the two cities that still exists today!

That year, as a small gesture of their gratitude, Halifax sent a Christmas tree to Boston. Decades later someone decided that once wasn't enough, and so since 1971 Halifax has sent a Christmas tree to Boston every year! Talk about Minnesota nice. And, being neighborly and grateful. This definitely gives Minnesota a run for their money in the nice category!

We'd love to see other cities trying to outdo the people in Boston, Minnesota, and Halifax. That would put a whole new face on Christmas!

Photo credit: MN Nice, Christmas Tree