MILWAUKEE — There is a long legacy of tradition at the Christmas tree lot on the corner of 68th and Burleigh. For generations, families have stopped by to pick out their fresh-cut Christmas trees, many making it a yearly tradition.
"It was 1949 when we started doing the trees here and this lot," said Gene Genal with Boy Scout Troop 61, the group that organizes the lot.
Many families that live nearby the lot bring wagons to transport their trees back home.
"I went to grade school at MGC (Mother of God Counsel School), and I was part of the troop when I was a little kid and worked this tree lot for a few winters and moved to San Francisco a few years ago and glad to see it's here," said customer Patrick McGarry.
The lot is staffed by members of Boy Scout Troop 61, and the proceeds help fund their activities for the year. Each year they have about 1,000 trees, and nearly 800 of them - are sold to repeat customers. On Friday, the lot was packed with people and before they officially opened, they made $400 in sales.
"I think we are going to be busy today because of Black Friday. They go out shopping and come by and see the tree lot is open," said Gene.
"We don't offer any Black Friday deals, but we will still sell you a great tree," said Eagle Scout Adam Justin.
Adam started volunteering at the lot when he was in 6th grade. He said to him, it's about more than selling pine trees. It's about learning life lessons.
