For the first time in the 43-year history of the tradition, Nova Scotia’s Christmas tree for Boston will come from the northern half of the province.

John and Ethel Ann MacPherson of Purlbrook, Antigonish County have offered to donate their 55-year-old, 13-metre white spruce to the city.

"We are very happy this year's Boston tree is coming from Antigonish County and from our own backyard," said John MacPherson. "It's great to think our tree will represent all of Nova Scotia."  

Nova Scotia has been sending a Christmas tree to Boston since 1971, to thank the city for its help after the Halifax Explosion in 1917.

The Halifax Explosion claimed about 2,000 lives and left hundreds injured and homeless. Boston was quick to provide medical personnel and supplies.

Usually the tree comes from counties in the bottom half of the province, but the province says the MacPhersons’ tree is the perfect size and shape and is easy to access.

"Our city is grateful to the MacPherson family of Nova Scotia for generously donating this year's tree to be Boston's official Christmas tree," said Boston Mayor Martin Walsh in a statement. "This tree will stand on Boston Common to heighten the holiday spirit for everyone."

Staff and students from the environmental technologies program at the Nova Scotia Community College Strait Area campus will cut the tree during a public ceremony on Nov. 17.

The tree will then travel to Halifax for a public sendoff ceremony at Grand Parade on Nov. 18. Nova Scotians are welcome to attend the ceremony, which will feature a live performance by The Stanfields. They will also have the opportunity to sign a thank you book for Boston.

The tree will then make its 1,117-kilometre journey to Boston. A tree-lighting ceremony will take place on the Boston Common on Dec. 4.

The province is encouraging Nova Scotians to help search for the perfect tree for Boston for future years.

Anyone who knows of a white or red spruce or balsam fir that is 12 to 15 metres high, is in good shape, and is easy to access can contact their local Natural Resources office.