When Neighbors Made Christmas Shine: The Granger Park Tree Story

In the early 1960s, the Granger Jaycees made it their mission to bring the Christmas spirit to the heart of the community. Each year, the Jaycees strung lights on a tree in Granger Park, brightening the season for everyone who passed by.

In December 1965, they went a step further. Jaycees George Lanphere, Steve Larsen, Vaughn Peart, Ken Wright, Chuck Bayman, Pete Monia, Bill Barton, Bob Barton, and Ron Sams found a beautiful 14-foot pine tree near Alexander Lake in the Uinta Mountains. They brought it back to Granger Park, planted it as a permanent Christmas tree, and decorated it with care.

Every December, the Jaycees would gather to string new lights and make sure the tree shone bright — a beloved tradition that brought neighbors together and reminded everyone what community spirit looks like in action. The Jaycee-ettes, their dedicated wives and partners, helped spread cheer in other ways too — like wrapping gifts for families in need through the Sub-for-Santa project.

The Granger Lions Club, meanwhile, had already given the community the gift of the park itself. They spent countless hours selling goods and collecting donations — not relying on tax dollars — to buy and maintain Granger Park. Together, the Lions and Jaycees created a place that served generations for nearly 50 years.

When Granger Park was removed to make way for the new Granger High School, the tree and its lights were lost — but the spirit behind them lives on. The community will always remember and appreciate the dedication, time, and sacrifices of the Lions and Jaycees who gave Granger a park, a Christmas tradition, and so many cherished memories.

Bob Barton, Dennis Leonard, chairman, and Garry Forrest