A century-old holiday tradition came back to Chicago’s lakefront on Saturday, as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw delivered more than 1,200 Christmas trees to Navy Pier for families in need.

Crowds gathered along the dock shortly after sunrise, bracing against the wind as the ship made its approach. Volunteers — some wrapped in scarves and others in full uniform — stood ready to unload the trees as soon as the vessel tied up. Within minutes, the pier became an organized flurry of movement, with evergreens passing from hand to hand in steady lines.

The event traces its roots to the early 1900s, when the Rouse Simmons, a three-masted schooner known as the “Christmas Tree Ship,” sailed into Chicago for more than 30 years. Families waiting on shore were able to spot the vessel by the fresh tree lashed to its main mast, signaling the annual arrival of thousands of holiday trees destined for homes around the city.

The Mackinaw now reenacts that arrival each December, continuing a legacy that began more than a century ago. Youth volunteers — including Sea Cadets, Venture Crews, Sea Scouts and Young Marines — worked through the morning to move the trees from the cutter onto waiting trucks. The trees will be distributed to families across Chicago through Ada S. McKinley Community Services, which coordinates delivery to households that may not otherwise have a decorated tree for the holidays.

Organizers said the annual operation is made possible through donations from sponsors and community supporters. While the scene on the pier was brisk and efficient, volunteers paused at times to take photographs, wipe away pine needles and call for warmer gloves as the load continued.

By late morning, the last trees had been cleared from the dock, marking another year of an effort that blends maritime history, volunteer service and holiday generosity — a tradition many Chicagoans say defines the season as much as any snowfall or sparkling display.