THIS MAPLE TREE IN THE BACKYARD of the Henry and Millie Hay residence (the late Pastor Homer Dobson’s former home) at 249 5th St. isn’t as well-known “Tornado Tree” that has been memorialized along Hwy. 14, but it does hold some relevance, as it was in or near the path of the deadly June 13, 1968, F5 tornado that killed nine Tracy residents and destroyed 111 homes. The massive tree not only survived the twister, but it has since sprouted 11 “volunteer” trees. Maple trees are known to be notorious for sprouting a number of “volunteers.” A two-man crew from 3D Sawmill of Ruthton spent most of the day Wednesday methodically cutting branches down. Photos / Per Peterson
