Norway spruce, branches and cone. Eric Stadlin (2013)

   I interviewed Alexander Gemme, a current junior and former resident of Slade Hall, the environmental living community at the University of Vermont. Behind Slade stands a tall Norway Spruce. He referred to it lovingly as, “Mother Tree,” a name used by others member of the environmental living community as well. Gemme does not know the origins of the name, however, he believes that others may have called it “Master Tree” in the past.
     To Gemme, Mother Tree watches over and protects the surrounding community members. While he does not believe that a spirit inhabits it, nor does he worship a divine presence at the tree, he does believe that “she” has a certain personality: a human counterpart in the natural world. 
     With strong, sturdy branches, one can climb almost all the way to the top of the spruce. Gemme recollects a sense of security when he sits at the top, either alone or with friends. From his perch, he feels vast open space all around him, yet no one can see that he is there. It gives him a sense of peace. Besides being a protectorate for Gemme, Mother Tree is a place to meditate and contemplate life. He can relax and clear his head when up in the tree. According to Gemme, other students also find Mother Tree to be a special place.

     One of the best times Gemme ever experienced in Mother Tree was his first climb to her top branches two years ago. He and his friend reach to the top right as the sun set over the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain. Now, his friend has a large tattoo of Mother Tree extending down his side, from his armpit to his waist. This tattoo reflects the importance of Mother Tree to many people in the community, including Gemme.