Shoe tree of Pigeon

Driving through the Thumb of Michigan, at the corner of Unionville and Pigeon roads, you'll find a tree covered in an odd fruit. Shoes.

This sole-full tree sports more than just the average tennis shoe slung over its branches. There are work boots, flip flops, baby shoes and even a pair of pink high heels modified with rope to hold them together.



Why is there a tree full of shoes along the road? I didn't get a chance to ask the people of Pigeon that question but shoe trees across the country exist for many reasons. Some are to signify great steps in a persons life and the shoes are flung up after weddings or graduations or births. Other times the tree is one of de-feet and the shoes signify a love lost or loved one remembered. Of course, sometimes a shoe is just a shoe and people like flinging them up into trees. Whatever the reason, the shoe tree of Pigeon is an interesting find and a must-see when you're in the area.